As one of the coldest, snow-iest Canadian winters in recent memory drags on, you may experience mild depression. A vibrant and uplifting environment at work and at home can improve your mood, says Joshua Zuchter, a life and business coach based in Toronto.

Zuchter offers these tips to help keep the blahs at bay:

> Improve Your Lighting. Poor lighting can dampen your mood. “If you are feeling down and there isn’t enough direct sunlight coming into your home or office,” says Zuchter, “turn on the lights.”

> Decorate. Hang pictures and posters that inspire you at the office and at home. Add a touch of colour to the décor. “Use orange, red, purple or your favourite colour,” Zuchter says, “but not so much that it’s overwhelming.”

> Tidy Up. Clutter can be a downer.

> Add Green. Plants and flowers make a space uplifting. A small water fountain will have a tranquil and calming effect.

> Aroma Therapy. Scents can enhance your mood. Try some all-natural air fresheners from the health-food store, such as lime, cinnamon, jasmine or lavender.

> Take Your Vitamins. Research shows that a main cause of winter blahs is a lack of vitamin D, which comes from exposure to the sun.

> Get Adventurous. Start that new activity you always wanted to try, such as archery, wall climbing or salsa lessons.

> Embrace The Season. Take up a winter sport, such as pickup hockey, skating, skiing or snow-shoeing. IE