Turning the clocks back this weekend is NOT my favorite time of the year. Sure I appreciate the extra hour, but that wears off fast and we are left with cold weather and short days. Many people suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression that occurs around this time of year. Although I don’t personally struggle with SAD, the change in seasons often makes me feel like hibernating and often saps my energy.
Here are a few strategies I’ve found that can help keep me happy and healthy as we head toward winter.
Schedule something to look forward to – This week I’ve got lunch plans with two of my favorite gal pals, am attending a FlashMob fundraiser, and have Saturday night plans with a few of my favorite people to see one of my favorite shows. That’s what I call joyful anticipation! Having something to look forward to is uplifting and hopeful.
Find a workout buddy – It’s easy to head home after work and climb into your pj’s even though it’s only 6 pm. My workouts are already scheduled for the week and I’m grateful to have a workout buddy who will keep me accountable. I’m not likely to skip my workout when I know someone will be looking for me.
Make a list – Those who know me, know it comes as no surprise that I make a list when the weather changes of things I make a list of indoor projects and activities that I want to tackle. I like to include books I want to read, movies to see or recipes I want to try. Here are a few of the things on my list this season:
- Watch at least three of the documentaries on my Netflix list
- Learn a new song on the piano (it’s been AGES since I’ve played, so it’s about time I got back to it)
- Work on designing note cards with my photos from India
- Try a new workout – I’m thinking Spinning? Only tried it once over a decade ago, so maybe it’s time to give it a whirl (no pun intended)
- Experiment with baking with protein power
Embrace the season – We can’t change the temperature outside, so why not experiment with concocting some tasty new soups or trying new herbal teas to keep warm? The picture above is a delish new soup (Turkey, Kale & Brown Rice Soup) I made from Giada’s Feel Good Food. Add to that a fire in the fireplace and a good book, and I hardly remember the chilling temps outside.
Get organized – When the weather is nice I hate to spend more time indoors than necessary. The change in season is a good time to organize those things that I may neglect during the summer. Whether it’s cleaning out the pantry, my office files, or finally tackling the basement, this is the perfect time to do these chores.
Trying these simple steps can help us to find joy even in the cold and dark days.
Well, the sun will be going down soon , better get ready for my yoga class, my workout buddy will be waiting for me!