Here in Thunder Bay we are so close to Spring - the sun is out a little longer every day. However it is still winter and working your 9-5 can still be a struggle regardless of whether you do your job from a cubicle or the comfort of home. Although remote working certainly has it's perks, like skipping slushy rush hour commutes or shovelling the driveway in the early morning hours, it can also present unique challenges during winter months.

A lack of sunlight, frosty temperatures and shorter days can make your at home work day feel unproductive and stagnant. Working and living in the same 4 walls can make it seem like the days are blurring together without a break in the routine. Luckily with a few minor ajustments to your office space at home, you can stave off that sluggish winter feeling. 

Here are a few great ways to help you beat those winter blues when working from home;

FEED YOUR BRAIN IMAGES OF JOY AND INSPIRATION

Your workspace should be one that sparks creativity and energy. Promote an uplifting home/work environment with bright decorative items, inspiring artwork  and images of loved ones. Make your space feel extra productive in the wintertime with additions like desk organizers, your favorite stationary or a whiteboard callendar. 

BRIGHTEN YOUR SPACE TO MAKE IT A HAPPY PLACE

Your daily dose of sun is a great way to get a boost of Vitamin D and serotonin. There are fewer daylight hours still during the last of the winter months, which can make it harder to get the rise in seritonin levels that we require. Get that much needed dose during your work hours by placing your desk in a sunny spot in your home. If your workspace lacks access to light, invest in a desk sun lamp - a special  type of light that mimics natural sunlight - to help you soak up those rays. 

ADD PLANT POWER

With constant slush and snow on the ground it's understandable  that you'd miss the sight of lush greenery. Bring a bit of life into your workspace with the addition of house plants. Whether you prefer fiddle-leaf fig trees or succulents, a collection of under shrubs can help to lift your spirits. Not only are plants just pretty to look at, many of them provide stress-reducing air-cleaning qualities, such as aloe vera, snake plant and lavender.

ENJOY A LITTLE AROMATHERAPY

There's nothing like the smell of freshly brewed coffee to get you up and running ahead of a busy workday. Introduce scents into your at-home office to make the space feel inviting and invigorating. Use a diffuser with your favorite essential oils or simply burn a candle to take in your preferred aromas. Certain smells are known to promote concentration and alertness, such a citrus, vetiver and peppermint. 

BONUS TIP- It's important to take breaks, especially  when working from home. Even when temperatures are below zero, getting outside can be beneficial to your mood and your mental health. Even if it's just for a few minutes, throw your parka on and enjoy a blast of fresh air to boost your energy levels.