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How to Beat the Winter Blues

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Brigham Young University (BYU) students, like students anywhere else, are susceptible to the winter blues. Here are some common ways students might cope with the winter season:


  1. Outdoor Activities: Taking advantage of winter intramural sports and activities can be a great way to stay active and enjoy the season. Additionally, students might prefer going out on their own by taking advantage of local, world-class skiing or snowboarding resorts Alta or Snowbird, or simply taking a walk in the snow. Don't like the cold? Soak in the sunshine by heading to St. George for a day.

  2. Indoor Recreation: Keep up with exercise routines and plan weekly activities to break the winter routine. BYU and Provo offer indoor recreational facilities where students can engage in activities like pickleball, or swimming at the Richards Building (RB), rock climbing at the Quarry, or playing indoor activities with friends during open court times at the RB gyms. Whatever indoor activity you choose, create an environment for positivity by remaining close to full-spectrum light sources (considered light therapy; especially helpful at home).

  1. Socializing: Building a strong social support network can help combat feelings of isolation during winter. Students may join BYU Clubs such as BadmintonBakingBeatboxBlack Student Union, or Board Game Club (to name the first few Bs). Students could pop on a "warm-island-vibes" Spotify playlist and go hot tubbing with some close friends to stay connected.

  1. Wellness and Fitness Programs: BYU's SWELL department hosts many Winter programs to keep students active. Additionally, SWELL offers Yfitness classes to support students' mental and physical well-being. These programs include yoga, Zumba, or Aquafit classes.

  1. Cultural and Entertainment Events: Attending cultural events, concerts, and performances on or around campus can provide a break from the routine and add some excitement to the winter months. BYUarts has a full calendar of events to choose from. Outside of campus, find joy in community activities like spending time in the temple and chatting with coworkers.

  1. Seasonal Celebrations: Embracing winter festivities and holidays can bring a sense of joy. The Provo Library hosts and publishes a number of Winter events that students may participate in for free, including holiday-display-making, a Messiah Sing-In, performing groups, and Christmas-light-viewing activities.

  1. Academic Support and Stress Management: Winter can be a challenging time academically, with exams and projects. Seeking academic support, managing stress through healthy coping mechanisms, and maintaining a balanced schedule can contribute to overall well-being. BYU's Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) offers many off-line mental health resources and clinical services.

    Don't be SAD. Proactively combat the blues. Connect with others. Plan some Winter events today! 

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