Bold reality check: Seasonal darkness doesn’t have to dim your entire year—these practical steps can help you ride out the longest nights with more energy and a sunnier outlook.
This piece, written by a student from the Her Campus chapter at U Conn, shares personal strategies for navigating the darker days after daylight saving time. It’s not a statement of Her Campus policy, but a relatable guide from someone just like you.
As daylight dwindles, many people notice mood shifts, especially college students who already juggle late starts and packed schedules. The following tips aim to turn the season of gloom into a period of intentional, manageable habits that preserve motivation and joy.
- Observe the sunrises and sunsets
Sunrises and sunsets aren’t just pretty moments; they’re reminders to savor daylight when it’s available. If waking early isn’t your thing, you can still intentionally catch the sunrise or sunset when you can. Even a short window of morning light can set a positive tone for the day and help you feel more connected to the rhythm of the day.
- Plan for the near future
When the days feel dreary, plan small, concrete activities for the near future. A trip with friends for a spring break, a weekend visit from family, or even a simple plan for a week from now can create forward momentum. The key is having something concrete to look forward to, which makes the current days feel more purposeful and less monotonous.
- Consider light therapy
Light therapy is a practical option some people use to counteract seasonal mood changes. A light box simulates daylight and can reduce tiredness and low mood for many individuals. If you’re curious, talk to a healthcare professional and research reputable sources to determine whether this is a good fit for you before purchasing equipment. It’s especially helpful for those with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or anyone feeling consistently down during darker months.
- Curate mood-appropriate music
Music can mirror and influence mood in powerful ways. Start with tracks that acknowledge and validate winter feelings—albums like Stranger in the Alps by Phoebe Bridgers or Evermore by Taylor Swift capture winter’s introspective energy. The poignant lyric from Evermore, “Gray November, I’ve been down since July,” can resonate with the season’s sadness, while the hopeful line, “I had a feeling so peculiar, this pain wouldn’t be for evermore,” offers a gentle pivot toward resilience. Listening deeply to music that reflects your emotions can be cathartic and comforting.
Additionally, create a counterbalance playlist that evokes warmth and summer memories. Upbeat, sun-soaked songs can help shift your mood toward the future and remind you of enjoyable activities to anticipate. A personal example: a curated summer playlist can bring back memories of swimming, ice cream, and outdoor outings, signaling that better days are ahead.
- Make the most of daylight
It’s easy to retreat indoors when it’s cold, but spending time outside—even briefly—boosts mood and energy. Exposure to natural light supports vitamin D production, which can improve well-being. Try short outdoor breaks: a quick walk with a friend, a short run, or simply stepping outside for a few minutes between study sessions. Dress warmly to stay comfortable, and remember that even a small amount of daylight can make a difference.
A note on timing and optimism
I wrote this in November, and by the time you read it, December will be mid-month. That means you’re already closer to longer days. After the winter solstice on December 21, daylight begins to extend, gradually brightening the weeks ahead. Soon enough, spring arrives with longer afternoons and blooming flowers. I’m hopeful, and I suspect many readers share that sentiment. In the meantime, enjoy the holiday season and experiment with these tips to better weather the winter darkness.
