Coping with the january doldrums

It's the January doldrums.  The holidays are over and sunlight is scarce.  It's hard to want to go to work when that is all it feels like you are doing with your time.  When you drive to school in the dark and drive home in the dark, there isn't much spark to the day.  I never thought I suffered from Seasonal Affective Disorder, but the lack of sunlight during the day makes me feel like I'm stuck in "work-mode."  
Being intentional about coping during this time of year is essential for feeding your soul and keeping yourself sane.  Here are some ideas on how I have found success in boosting my mood during this challenging time:

• Soak in some rays by working near a window.  If you are lucky enough to have a classroom with a window, use it to your advantage!  Place your desk nearby and position your chair in a way for the sunlight to come in and hit your face.  Additionally, while you are circling the classroom, make intentional "pit stops" by the windows to get a minute or two of sun.  (Consider seating for your most challenging students here since you will most likely be there often!)
• Take five minutes of your lunch and walk outside.  I know that many of you work during your lunch so this one might be tricky, but even a short trip outside can turn your mood around!  If you live in a cold region of the country, it will be more challenging to get yourself outside, but sometimes the cold is invigorating!  Just the change of scenery in addition to the fresh air can recharge you.  I've always been jealous of other occupations where employees can go out to lunch for this reason.  Just leaving the building for a few minutes can act as a reset for the day.  If you've had a difficult day, the outside time can act as a cleaning of the slate.  When you walk back into the building, you can start fresh.  We do this for our students all the time.  We can do this for ourselves as well!
• Make plans with a friend.  This one might take some pushing of yourself because you are so busy, but it is worth it!  Make "you" time a priority!  Schedule a fun outing with a friend for an evening - grab a coffee, catch a concert, try a new restaurant, or hit up a happy hour.  Do something - ANYTHING - to get out and feel like a person who is living a full life - who gets out and explores their community!  Don't keep yourself in the work-home-work-home rut that can drag you down.  You need events to look forward to and you need a break from school. 

What other ways do you intentionally boost your mood during this time of year?  I challenge you to try at least one this week and notice how it impacts you.  See comments for other ideas!