It’s stick season here in the Northeast and many find themselves wrestling with the effects of seasonal depression. Colder temperatures, shorter days, and lack of sunlight takes its toll on one’s mental health and can lead to feeling lethargic, unmotivated, and depressed. Not to mention this season can last for 6 months so by March we are counting down the days to spring. Can you relate?
Fear not! Spring is just around the corner. This year we spring ahead on Sunday March 10th at 2am and its officially spring on March 19th. 9 more sleeps to more daylight hours and 18 more sleeps until spring (I’m not excited or anything)! Click here for the official countdown to spring and read on for 5 tips for getting through the winter slump.
Sidenote: Music is one of my coping mechanisms and personally I think it’s a great one! That’s why I included a link to Noah’s Kahan’s Stick Season. My son introduced me to his music last year, and we were lucky enough to catch a surprise performance at a Post Malone concert last summer (it was amazing)! But I digress, read on for more tips to beat seasonal depression.
Seek Sunlight:
Get outside as much as possible. Even if it’s just to walk down your driveway to get your mail. Exposure to natural light has a significant impact on mood as well as energy levels. If you can’t get outdoors try to spend some time in front of a window to increase your sunlight exposure.
We installed a pellet stove in our 3-season room this fall, and it has become our favorite room in the house. Before it was too cold to spend time out there in the winter but now that we can it has made a world of difference in our moods. We are surrounded by natural light and while we are still excited for spring to come, we are at least less grouchy about it.
Stay Active:
I mean did you really think I wasn’t going to mention this one as a personal trainer? Regular exercise is a powerful tool to combat depression of any kind, so this is no different. Physical activity releases feel good hormones called endorphins, which are known to improve mood and reduce stress and anxiety. So, take that walk, attend a yoga or dance class, or find another activity that you enjoy and make it a part of your regular routine.
Maintain a Healthy Routine:
Just because the sun has decided to abandon us for 6 months doesn’t mean we should abandon our daily routines that keep us healthy and thriving. If you don’t already have a healthy routine established, begin one today. Establishing a consistent daily routine can help provide structure and stability during these long winter months. Make sure to prioritize healthy nutrition, regular physical activity, regular sleep/wake schedules, and self-care activities that bring you joy.
Connect with Others:
Social support is pivotal in managing seasonal depression. Reach out to friends and loved ones, join a book club, or consider speaking with a mental health professional. Sharing experiences and personal feelings with others can help lessen feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Practice Mindfulness:
Incorporating mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, prayer, or journaling can help you stay present and cultivate a sense of calm in the midst of seasonal challenges.
Remember, while the winter months may feel long and challenging, spring is just around the corner. Brighter days are ahead, both literally and figuratively. Stay resilient, be kind to yourself, and hold onto the promise of spring. I invite you to embrace the changing seasons as an opportunity for growth, transformation, and a fresh start. While you’re at it join me in a Healthy Makeover Challenge to make the next month fly by and busy yourself turning inward while we wait for the metamorphosis that is spring. Want to learn more? Read all about it here. Still have questions? Reach out at [email protected].
Don’t forget to sign up for your own metamorphosis! Happy soon to be spring!
Wishing you much love, health, and happiness,
Christine
