063: Seasonal Blahs Got You Down?
I'm unapologetic (and occasionally annoying) about my love for spring/summer warmth and abundant sunshine - preferrably near or on water or relaxing with patio-time.
I'm also self-aware enough to recognize that I'm a seasonal complainer - especially when the days are shorter, the clocks fall back, and the post-holiday season is upon us (eyes on you January and February).
Face it, the winter months can feel like - if I can be so blunt - "a cold, grey bucket of suck!"
I realize that I'm not alone in this. And many deal with the more overwhelming, chronic condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
The exact cause of SAD isn't fully understood. Research would indicate that a number of factors contribute to it.
- Less hours of sunshine or daylight that disrupt your body's internal clock.
- Seasonal changes that impact your production of melatonin (your body's sleep trigger).
- Vitamin D deficiency due to a reduction in healthy sunlight exposure and a decrease in seratonin (your body's mood regulator).
Aside from the more serious bouts of SAD that might require therapeutic intervention, the seasonal blahs are common and somewhat expected.
You can allow your grey mood to drive you further into a seasonal funk or you can embrace the cold, grey suck and make some lifestyle changes to weather the season
"“What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness.” -John Steinbeck 1
- Stay connected and active
- Acknowledge the changes
- Develop healthy routines
Stay connected and active
Connection can be anything from getting out and among friends and replenishing relationships to checking on friends and family who you know might be under a grey cloud of seasonal funk.
I'm currently training for a half-marathon in late April (yay, Spring).
The winter season is making my mileage log more challenging.
But I've discovered that an extra layer and turning my face into the grey or sunny chill is invigorating.
The residual effect of taking action illuminates my grey mood to an extent.
- Calendar some time during the winter quarter with some replenishing people.
- Get out of your chair or off the couch and change your environment for a moment or two every few hours.
- Step outside (weather and wardrobe permitting) and breath some fresh air and soak in a ray of available Vitamin D enriched sunlight.
Acknowledge the changes
Acceptance plays into how you handle the Winter doldrums.
Seasons are nature's cycle of renewal.
Though the leaves have fallen from the large maple tree in my backyard, I can see the dormant fresh buds slightly protruding from the branches.
It's Winter but the signs of an approaching Spring are there.
As I write this, it's snowing steadily.
Frankly, if it's gonna be cold and bitter I prefer some snow to go with it.
Kinda like nature's whipped cream on a bland dessert.
- Find something in your Winter surroundings to remind you that its a unique season with unique blessings.
- Journal your Winter-wonderings or create a Winter photo journal that encourages you to enjoy the season for its insights and scenery changes.
- Be compelled by the reality that a seasonal change IS coming as you feel the need to endure a characteristically challenging Winter period.
Develop healthy routines
Winter routines are in many ways different than any others.
Some things stay consistent.
As earlier noted, I must continue my running routine regardless of the grey, cold, or inclimate conditions.
I'm committed to the routine with a few minor adjustments as necessary.
Routine can get you through a grey winter mood.
- Avoid the temptation to "hibernate" and instead stay active mentally, physically, and emotionally (re-read the first point).
- Remind yourself that its Winter but life goes on - slow down but don't stop engaging, reading, listening, and learning.
- Replenish your reserves: use Vitamin D supplements when your sun exposure is low (consult with a medical professional about dosage amounts), increase the light in your environment so your Melatonin levels (the sleep hormone) don't send you into a lethargic funk, and stay aware of any predispositions to depression (seasonal or otherwise) that could increase during the Winter.
The seasonal cycle is normal and Winter in particular can be more challenging but with some initiative you can weather it
- Staying connected and replenishing activity
- Acknowledging the seasonal changes
- Developing consistent and healthy routines
Press on...
Eddie
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