Even A Short Stroll Outdoors Can Boost Your Mood And Beat The Winter Blues

Beating the winter blues can be difficult — with shorter days, less movement and generally feeling a little flat and tired as a result, motivation can be hard to come by. Don’t get me wrong, winter is actually one of my favourite walking/hiking seasons, but I also understand the difficulty the winter season brings with it.

Getting up and heading to work in the dark and then returning home in the dark can really take its toll on your mood. This is why it is even more important to take advantage of the little sunlight and walking opportunities you get.

Local canal paths, loop lines, woodland walks, local parks, or even just 20-minutes around the block — be sure to make the most of the environment around you. If you’re in the office or working from home, just try taking a short stroll outdoors instead of just eating lunch at your desk — it’s absolutely worth taking the short break for improved mood and concentration.

Movement is key to beating the winter blues

Of course, anytime you can get out on a hiking trail in winter, I say go for it — and make it the most enjoyable walk/hike you can do. However, even just getting out for at least 20-minutes on your lunch break can boost your mood and offer much-needed Vitamin D. Natural daylight plays an important role in regulating sleep patterns and mood, and even muted winter light is more beneficial than artificial lighting indoors.

Gentle steady movement can be key to increasing circulation, warming the body, and releasing endorphins that help lift your mood. The combination of physical activity and fresh air often brings a sense of quiet energy that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.

Reassuring winter landscapes

There’s also something reassuring about winter landscapes. Subtle colours, low sun, frost, and shifting weather give winter walking its own character. Paying attention to these details can help break the monotony that often feeds seasonal low mood.

Perhaps most importantly, getting outdoors can create a sense of purpose. Choosing a route, putting on boots or walking shoes, and stepping outside is a small but meaningful act of momentum when everything feels slower. It’s a reminder that winter isn’t something to endure indoors — it’s something you can still enjoy in all its raw beauty.