If you’re feeling this way, you’re not alone,truly. Every single year, I find myself writing some version of this blog on combatting the winter blues, and it always seems to come out right when everyone around me is feeling it the most. The group chats sound the same, the conversations repeat themselves, and the energy shifts in a way that’s hard to ignore. Most people won’t call it depression, but you’ll hear it in other ways: “I wish I was in the tropics,” or “Not again, the temperature dropped,” or that long sigh when you look outside and see nothing but grey skies and flurries… again. It’s subtle, but it’s there and it’s shared.

Winter blues has a way of dimming more than just the daylight, it can slowly impact your mood, your energy, and your overall outlook without you even realizing it at first. You might still be showing up, going to work, keeping up with life, but something feels a little heavier, a little slower. Even when things are going well on paper, the winter blues can creep in after too many days of dull skies, early sunsets, and cold air that keeps you indoors. And somehow, it feels even more frustrating when the calendar says spring has arrived, but outside your window, it still looks and feels like the middle of December. That disconnect alone can be enough to throw you off.

At least 5 friends have wanted a little more sun this week, so here’s to making more together!

It’s in these moments that it becomes easy to retreat into a quieter, lower-energy version of yourself. Motivation dips, plans feel like effort, and even small tasks can feel heavier than usual. But here’s the thing, feeling this way doesn’t mean something is wrong with you. It means you’re human, responding to a season that naturally slows everything down. The key isn’t to fight winter or pretend it doesn’t affect you, but to find small, intentional ways to move through it. Sometimes, a simple shift in perspective can make all the difference. Seeing the light during winter isn’t about forcing positivity, it’s about creating it in ways that feel real and manageable. Here are five grounding thoughts to help you feel a little brighter, even on the darkest days.

1. Winter is a season, not a state of mind
It’s temporary. However long it feels, winter will pass. Reminding yourself that this is just a phase, not a permanent reality, can help you avoid getting stuck in it mentally. Just like nature rests during winter, you’re allowed to slow down too. Think of it this way, in 29 sleeps it will all be over!

Close your eyes, in just 29 sleeps the green and sun is back!

2. Light can be created, not just found
If the sun isn’t showing up, bring your own version of light indoors. Warm lamps, candles, cozy corners, and even small routines can create a sense of brightness. Light isn’t only physical—it’s also in the habits and environments you build. One of the best gifts I ever got, was 3 LED Hue lightbulbs that you can change with your phone! I have been making indoor moods ever since..

3. Choose company that lifts you up
Winter can feel even heavier when you’re surrounded by the wrong energy. Make an effort to spend time with people who bring you up, not down… those who make you laugh, feel supported, and remind you of your worth. Even a quick call or a simple hangout can shift your mood more than you expect. Protect your energy. If you find that someone is bringing their own nasty weather to your environment, cut time spent with them at least until true Spring ;) who needs Winter & energy vampires.

Even on grey days the sun has to rise, find a rooftop – get up early and enjoy it before it gets covered by the winter.

4. Your energy doesn’t need to match summer
There’s pressure to stay productive all year, but winter naturally calls for a different pace. It’s okay if your motivation feels lower. Rest, reflection, and slower progress are still progress. /maybe your gym routine is more like 3-4 days vs 5-6 during winter which is totally normal, you’re still going and that’s what counts. In Spring, you will get out more and pick up more outdoor moving too. Maybe a few hobbies or projects are slacking off. It’s ok, just promise that you wll finish them if they are important to you and your overal goals. Sleep in, journal, take long baths, cook comfy food, discover a nice new wine.

Often it’s the thought that gets in the way “I don’t FEEL like..” when pushing yourself to the gym, or out to socialize, will make you feel better.

5. You don’t need to feel great to move forward

Not every day will feel bright—and that’s completely normal. The goal isn’t constant happiness, but steady movement, and even small steps count, especially during harder seasons. Keep moving. One of the worst things you can do when you’re feeling “blah” is let sedentary habits take over and give up on activities you once enjoyed. If you find that your struggle goes beyond the typical winter blues—affecting your ability to eat, sleep, function, or feel connected—it’s important to reach out for help. There are free and confidential mental health resources available to you in Montreal. For example, Tel‑Aide Montréal offers a free, anonymous listening service, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, where trained volunteers will listen with empathy and without judgment if you need someone to talk to. You can call them at 514‑935‑1101 or toll‑free 1‑877‑935‑1101 anytime you need support.

If your symptoms feel more intense such as ongoing sadness, drastic changes in sleep or appetite, or thoughts of hurting yourself, please contact a professional right away. Quebec also has Info‑Social 811, a free, confidential telephone service where you can speak to a psychosocial worker who can help guide you to appropriate support, and the provincial suicide prevention line at 1‑866‑APPELLE (277‑3553), which provides immediate help and resources.

You don’t have to go through this alone, reaching out is a strong first step toward feeling better.

A 60 year long HARVARD study showed community was key in happiness over marriage, kids, and even money. Find your tribe!

Art is a powerful way to step outside yourself, shake up your emotions, and reconnect with the passions and spark that may have gone quiet. Check out our Weekly art exhibits drop every week, free shows – get out there! Escaping to a beautiful café, is another way to beat the winter blues!