It’s Time For Our Cabin Fever To Be Broken

The last couple of days have given me some hope that the days of dreary weather, way too cold temperatures and and the blahness of the winter blues may be behind us, and that we can finally break our cabin fever.

Ah, yes, cabin fever. That insidious ailment that strikes when you've been cooped up inside for too long. It can make you feel restless, irritable, and downright stir-crazy. But fear not, my friends, for I have some tried-and-true methods for fighting cabin fever.

First and foremost, get outside! Yes, I know it may be cold, or rainy, or snowy, or all of the above, but trust me, some fresh air and a change of scenery can work wonders. Bundle up, put on some sturdy shoes, and go for a walk, even if it's just around the block. Take deep breaths of that crisp winter air and feel the sun (or lack thereof) on your face. You'll be amazed at how much better you'll feel.

If the weather truly is unbearable, then find some indoor activities to keep you occupied. My sweet wife excels at this. She always has some sort of project to keep her occupied. Break out that jigsaw puzzle you've been meaning to tackle, or grab a board game and challenge your housemates (or your cat, if you're flying solo). You could also try your hand at baking some cookies or whipping up a hearty stew. The key here is to keep your mind and body engaged in something other than staring at the same four walls.

Another way to fight cabin fever is to connect with others. Sure, it might be more difficult to go to social gatherings. The club meeting for the local amateur radio club was canceled two months in a row due to weather conditions. But that doesn't mean we can't stay social. Set up a virtual game night with friends or family, or schedule a video chat with someone you haven't talked to in a while. Human interaction, even over a screen, can help boost your mood and make you feel less isolated.

Finally, try to keep a positive mindset. Yes, it's hard when we can't interact as we like to, but remember that it's temporary. Focus on the things you are grateful for, like a warm home or a good book to read. Practice self-care, whether that's taking a hot bath or doing some yoga. And most importantly, be kind to yourself. It's okay to feel a little stir-crazy now and then. Just remember that there are ways to combat cabin fever, and brighter days are ahead – and not that long from now!