How to Cheer Up When the Sun Goes Down Early

You know it's officially fall when we turn the clocks back.

It's exciting to get that extra hour of sleep, but it's sad knowing we get less daylight. Below are four ways to cheer up when the sun goes down early.

(The Nightmare Before Christmas via Touchstone Pictures)

1. Get a Light Therapy Box

We know artificial light isn't the same as the sun, but a light therapy box might do the temporary trick. It's a special lamp that gives off the full spectrum of light found in the sun. It doesn't give off ultraviolet rays. It's the perfect size to fit on your desk or nightstand to give you that extra cheerful boost you may need.

(via Shutterstock)

2. Exercise

Sure, we exercise to stay physically healthy, but fitness is also important for our mental health. In the famous words of Elle Woods, "Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy!" Perhaps wake up 20 minutes earlier than you usually do to get in some jumping jacks or a quick half-mile run. Doing this will certainly increase those happy endorphins!

3. Eat Carbs!

Wait, what? Yes, you heard me. Eat all the carbs. Well, in moderation of course. Carbohydrates can increase the serotonin, in your body, and serotonin helps balance your mood. So order yourself that pizza because your serotonin levels are telling you to.

(via Shutterstock)

4. Embrace the Dark

The truth is, it's going to keep getting darker earlier. Use the darkness to embrace the fall and winter months. Curl up on the couch with your family and watch a movie or maybe get in some much-needed reading. Take up a new indoor hobby like learning to bake your favorite dessert or starting a blog. Try something new that you didn't have time to do before.

(via Shutterstock)

 

And if after all of this you still need a pick-me-up, THESE delicious chocolate creations will certainly do the trick!