Winter Mindset
The holidays are upon us with the lighted holiday decorations everywhere, holiday music playing in the background and people rushing around to buy gifts and attend events. It seems like a fun and festive time of year but then then why do so many people feel the “Winter Blues?”
Seasonal affective disorder or SAD is seasonal depression. It typically begins late fall or early winter and can last four to five months. This is due to shorter days and less sunlight that may cause a drop in serotonin or vitamin D levels. This can cause some people to feel sadness, oversleeping, experience a lack of energy and a loss of interest in the things they normally enjoy. There are ways to manage these symptoms associated with SAD that may include counseling, medication or light therapy.
Every season has its reason and a purpose. During winter the nights get longer, and the days get shorter resulting in less daylight. Winter is how nature helps regulate the earth’s temperature. The animals hibernate to survive the harsh winters and perennial plants become dormant to store energy for new growth in the spring. The Winter helps to provide moister to refill the lakes and streams in the spring and summer. It’s a wonderous cycle of nature and life.
Just as natures purpose for the winter, we could also view this time of year as our time for rest and relaxation. What if we changed our mindset about the winter and viewed it as a time for our own personal hibernation? A time to recharge, renew and reflect so that we prepared for the upcoming warmer months just as nature does.
What does a personal hibernation look like? It can be a time where we plan on getting plenty of rest and do activities that are relaxing. Taking time to focus on our personal growth through reflection of the past year and by setting goals for the upcoming year. Picking a couple of books to read, work on a project or plan something for the future like a vacation for the upcoming year.
During our personal hibernation we should make it a habit to go outside and get some crisp winter air, take a walk, move our body, get some aerobic exercise like ice skating, skiing or sledding. Enjoy the bright starts in the winter sky. Indulge in hot chocolate or tea by the fireplace. Burn scented candles and take bubble baths with essential oils. Make some comfort food, bake some cookies or try a new recipe. Get creative with an art project such as painting, sewing or playing an instrument. Take on a declutter project such as cleaning out drawers or even your closet. We should also make time to socialize with friends and family. Embrace your winter mindset with own activities during this time of personal hibernation so that you are energized for the upcoming spring and summer ahead.