So glad you are here. Friday Five is all about being intentional about our mental health. 5 ideas, questions, tools and resources to encourage you to lean in, care for yourself and reset.
Many people struggle with lower mood, S.A.D (Seasonal Affective Disorder), and depression during the winter months. Today’s Friday Five is the first of a three part FF repost on improving your mood this winter. Keep in mind that if symptoms of depression persist, it is important to reach out to your family doctor for support. Depression is real, and obtaining medical help can be crucial.
I will admit it: Winter is my least favourite season. It’s cold. And dark. And it’s usually either grey or snowy. Despite this, I have tried to embrace the season, sometimes with success. During the pandemic lockdown I bundled up and got out walking with friends. It was a life saver. And embracing outdoor sports such as cross country skiing when there’s snow has helped make winter fun too. It’s a work in progress, learning to be intentional about embracing the season I am in.
To help with today’s Friday Five, I reached out to some friends and family regarding what they do to embrace the winter season. Their responses were so great (and helpful!) that I decided to make them into a 3 part series. In each post I highlight 5 creative ways you can not only survive, but also thrive in these dark days of winter.
1. Remember that winter is a season. It’s temporary, and there are benefits to it. (Like not having to cut the grass and weed the garden :)). Practice embracing the long dark nights by creating a warm and cozy environment. Cozy socks, a warm blanket, fireplace (if you have one), and a cup of your favourite hot beverage. Winter provides us with the opportunity to slow down, reflect, and recharge.
2. Consider taking on a reading challenge this year. How many books (including audiobooks) would you like to read this month/season/year? The winter months are the perfect time to embrace reading.
3. Get outside. I know. This is a hard one when it’s cold and dark by 5 pm. Walk with a friend. You will both benefit from the fresh air and exercise. Walking in nature (“forest bathing”) is even better. Use your 5 senses to experience your environment in a new way.
4. Enjoy your food. Try a new recipe. Embrace eating comfort foods that go with the season. Soup. Chili. Stew. It will look different for everyone but the point is to savour the foods that fit the season. Do you really want to have a bowl of chili in July? I didn’t think so. What foods provide comfort and a mood boost for you?
5. Connect with family and friends. There is greater potential to become more isolated during the winter months. Who wants to make plans when the weather is crummy? Do it anyway. Meals, walks, phone calls, zoom, workouts. Be intentional about planning times to connect with others. It’s important to have things on the calendar to look forward to, especially in the winter.
Takeaway: What is one thing you will do intentionally this week to embrace the winter season in order to proactively care for your mental health?
References: Special thanks to Donna, Melissa, Libby, Marilyn, Sue, Maddy, Kieryn, Cheryl, Tetyana, Carolyn, Kristina and Sheila for your helpful ideas!