The days are getting shorter and darker. With December comes lots of beauty like fresh snow, the holidays, and family traditions. But with all that positive comes the creeping feeling of melancholy and a general slowing down. It's harder to get up in the morning, and the sun is gone too fast. If this sounds like you, keep reading! In this blog post, I'm going to get real vulnerable and talk about some stuff that helps me during the winter months. It's been a long journey with my mental health and I'm still struggling, but having little things to help cope have helped make life a little brighter when the days get dark fast. Let's get into it.
First and foremost, I want to start this by saying that in the winter, our bodies slow down. It's a natural rhythm. If you are finding yourself dragging a little it is OKAY. Listen to your body - it knows best! This is in no way a guide on how to cure seasonal depression, but this is how I personally help cope with it! Find what's right for you and talk to a professional. Getting help is a big step and I am so proud of you for taking it!
When November rolls around I've always felt that heavy feeling start to creep up on me. I never used to like the cold, and I had nothing to look forward to during the winter. So, that brain fog would settle in and I would feel like a completely different person until spring came. I was always a summer girl. Living in Muskoka, Cottage Country, all I ever knew was lake life. I spent summer behind the boat on a wakeboard or a tube, swimming every single day, and lounging in the sun on the dock, among so many other summer activities. Winter would roll around, and all that was gone. I've struggled with my mental health for a long time, but it was always a little bit better in the summer. Now, though, I'm finding myself actually looking forward to the snow.
Hiking:
Of course, hiking was going to be on here! Having an activity in the winter that I find joy in has helped tremendously. There's something to be said for the simple benefit of getting your heart pumping and breathing in that fresh air. I've always loved hiking, but diving into it and really focusing on it, has made a world of difference for me. Hiking fills my cup and makes me feel like myself no matter what kind of week I'm having. I'm a firm believer that nature heals.
Trying new things:
Something that has been a real game-changer for me has been making plans to try new things in the winter. It doesn't have to be an outdoor activity or anything, but something new and exciting! For me, I'm looking to get into bouldering at a local climbing gym and try some guided adventures with a local tour company! I've also got a couple of trips that are in the works! Having something to look forward to has kept my spirits lifted as the weather has turned colder.
Making time for self-care:
This is a tough one. Easier said than done, but so important for our mental health. It's crucial to remember that self-care isn't just about face masks and bubble baths (although "me time" is 100% part of it). Self-care is eating healthy, getting enough sleep, and making just a little bit of time for something that makes you feel whole. Like I said, easier said than done. I'm still working on this one, and struggle with at least some aspect of self-care every day. It's the one tip I strive for, though, and we could all do well to remember to be kind and compassionate to ourselves.
It's okay to struggle in the winter like so many people do. These things really helped me turn my dread for winter into excitement.
Remember:
Make plans to try something new or take that day trip you've always wanted to!
Eat good meals and get enough sleep.
Do something once a week that makes you feel whole.
Make plans to try something new.
Don't be scared to seek professional help. It's so important.
Stay healthy and happy friends!
