Last week, I wrote about 4 spots to get cozy post-time change. Now, we’re here. DST is over, and last night, we experienced our first longer evening. I found myself yawning before dinnertime, sleepily disoriented in the darkness of my apartment at 5 p.m.
I’ve come up with suggestions to make the most of this extra hour of nighttime. Instead of succumbing to feelings of laziness and gloom, here are 5 productive ways to take advantage of the switch:
1. Do a puzzle
Puzzles are good for your brain! They keep you alert, improve memory, and exercise the mathematical, analytical parts of your mind. Section off an area of living space and keep the puzzle going continuously. It’s a perfect nighttime activity to do solo or when guests are over – people are often attracted to puzzles!
2. Plan a trip
There’s nothing like planning a vacation to brighten your mood – no matter how far in advance the trip may be! I have weekend guides for Nashville, New York City, Chicago, and D.C. so there’s no need to look far if you’re craving a fall/winter city escape.
3. Practice mindfulness
It can be easy to get in a funk when the days change. If you need some centering, try my easy tips for living mindfully. Something as simple as establishing a home yoga practice can completely change your mood and outlook.
4. Accomplish a goal
Set aside this extra hour of darkness and dedicate it to accomplish something. Perhaps you write, read, or exercise. Maybe there’s a home project you’ve been procrastinating. You might even wake up an hour earlier in the morning (when it’s lighter) and take a morning jog. If you pretend that you actually do have an extra hour in the day, you’ll be amazed at what you can get done, because you’ll believe that you have the time and feel more focused.
5. Decorate for the season
There are few things that cheer me up more than buying flowers for the house or decorating for the holidays. This November, put some energy into giving your home a warm, cozy, autumn, Thanksgiving vibe with orange accents and natural elements. Once December hits, go all-out with your holiday decorations. Decorating always brightens my mood and makes me feel both productive and festive!
I hope these ideas help! Please let me know some of your favorite ways to spend these longer evenings!
Love, Bee
