I See The Light
Spring is finally here and with it longer days and more light! Thank goodness. I love living in a state where I get to experience four seasons. I love a good snowfall at Christmas time. I love an occasional drizzly, overcast day when I can stay in and bake cookies ‘til my heart’s content.
However, I must admit, winter can seem to drag on and on. Sitting bundled up in front of my fireplace is one of my favorite things. But as the log pile dwindles, I find myself longing for sunshine and warmer days. Not only longing for them but needing them desperately.
During the winter, when the sunsets at 5:30pm, I am ready to wrap up my day. I have been known to cook dinner in my pajama’s. It might be fair to say I am not as productive during the “shortest” days of the year. Sometimes a little melancholy can set in.
A recent study by Cleveland Clinic purports that “about 5% of American adults experience serious seasonal depression, while 10%-20% experience a milder version called the “winter blues.”
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that occurs during the winter months when there is less sunlight. This type of depression often resolves itself once Spring arrives and we experience more sunlight.
COVID mandates in the past years did not help depression rates. People’s mental health suffered and there are those that are still trying to get back to a normal emotional state.
If the Spring warmth and sunshine is not helping lift your mood there are additional things you can implement in your life to elevate your mood:
1) Proper nutrition: Eat more whole foods, fresh foods not processed foods or fast food. Protein and greens should be at the top of your list.
2) Make sure you are drinking enough water, at least 64 oz. daily. More if you exercise rigorously.
3) Exercise: A good combination of aerobic, strength/weight bearing exercises and stretching.
4) Increase your social interactions. Even an introvert like me needs interaction. Go sit in a coffee shop for a change of scenery even if your only conversation is with the barista.
5) Make sure you are getting the correct daily allowance of vitamins and minerals. Many mood disorders are the result of lack of proper nutrition. Take a trip to your local health food store and let the staff help and educate you are what you may need.
6) When was the last time you had a check-up with your physician? They will perform blood work that can reveal deficiencies and other concerns.
7) If you are lonely consider getting a pet companion. They can do wonders for mental health if this is a responsibility you think you can take on.
These are just a few suggestions. If your low moods persist it may be time to seek out a mental health therapist. We all need support at certain times in our life. Do not hesitate to ask for the help you need.
Enjoy these “longer” sunnier days. Breath in the Spring air and find new things you can enjoy.
Be well my friends!