5 simple tips to beat the winter blues

As the temperature grows more frigid, snow piles higher, and days get shorter, just the thought of leaving the house can seem like an insurmountable feat. When your mood is dropping as fast as the temperature outside, these tips and tricks may help to boost your spirits and make the most of the season.

1. Snack smarter. While the cold winter months might make you crave comfort foods and junky snacks, these options are typically loaded with sugar and refined flours, making you feel even more sluggish. Opt for whole grains and complex carbs like spinach, yams, broccoli, beans, zucchini, and lentils which will fill you up while also providing long-lasting nourishment.

2. Plan a warm weather vacation. Turn your dreams into a reality by planning a trip to warmer weather. “Sometimes all we need is a change of pace and scenery during the winter months to recharge and unwind,” says Pierre-Jean Mayol at Aeroplan, one of Canada's leading loyalty programs. “Whether you're longing for breathtaking beaches and sunsets in Sydney, Australia, or a relaxation getaway to the white sandy beaches of Turks and Caicos, Aeroplan's Fixed Mileage and Market Fare Flight rewards make it easier to travel to over 1,300 destinations in more than 190 countries and start at only 7,500 miles”.

3. Make your environment brighter. Shorter days filled with more darkness can have a serious impact on our physical and mental wellbeing. Opening blinds, trimming trees in your backyard, and sitting closer to windows can help provide you with an extra dose of sunshine.

4. Get active. The winter usually makes us want to curl up in a blanket and glue ourselves to the couch for hours. Make an effort to break that cycle because exercise can actually help improve your mood and raise the brain's levels of serotonin and endorphins.

5. Embrace the season. Instead of thinking of ways to avoid the cold and snow, take up a sport like ice skating or hockey. Make the most of the slopes and plan an adventure to the world renowned mountains of Whistler, British Columbia. With access to any seat at any time on all Air Canada flights, Aeroplan's flight rewards make it easier to start planning your winter adventure right now. More information is available at www.aeroplan.com.