I grew up in Washington State, a place that rains for close to six months over the winter months. Now that I live in Berlin the story is pretty similar, though the days are less wet but even colder. Needless to say, I’ve basically spent my entire life missing the sun. SAD (seasonal affective disorder) affected me during previous winters, I would even have anxiety creep up in the fall when I knew the winter darkness was just around the corner. Over the years, I’ve collected many small ways to combat the winter that add up and make a big difference.

Here’s a list of the small things that go a long way in the winter time:

• Wear yellow, orange and white - if you can’t see or feel the sun, why don’t you become it?

• Eat squash, beets, eggplant, dark leafy greens, and brightly colored foods

• Buy fresh, brightly colored flowers (didn’t I say it has something to do with bright colors?!) Two of my favorites are tulips and peonies

• Drink endless cups of tea!

• Go hiking every other weekend (I use the app Komoot to find local hikes easily accessible from Berlin)

• Walk around the neighborhood and focus on the trees in the neighborhood instead of the people, buildings and signs

• Take long baths with a little bit of bath salt & a few drops of eucalyptus oil (light a candle if you wanna be extra!)

• Buy a super soft pair of gloves / invest in warm winter dresses

• Care for indoor plants, there’s nothing like the extra green in ones bedroom, kitchen or bathroom

• Bake something sweet and comforting! It’s always better to make your own sweets and there’s nothing like fresh baked banana bread or cookies. If you need some inspiration try out this chocolate banana bread or these almond butter chocolate chip cookies