“In the depth of winter, I finally learned that there was in me, there is an invincible summer” – Albert Camus
WHAT YOU MAY BE FEELING
As winter makes its approach upon us, the days become shorter, with colder temperatures. I am hearing of many individuals finding themselves struggling with the winter blues. This seasonal shift can usher in a wave of emotions, leaving some feeling melancholy, fatigue, and with less motivation. While not everyone experiences this, for those who do, understanding and managing these feelings is essential for mental well-being during the colder months.
Years ago I was struggling with all the above. I remember going to my NP and she said I had a pattern of showing up in her office late October or early November feeling this way.
Winter is the season of our Water element. When our water element is strong, we are able to flow with life and circumstances easily. People with a dominant Water Element tend to be perceptive, resourceful, and introspective.
When our Water element is lacking, the following symptoms may occur:
Persistent feelings of sadness or low mood
Fatigue and increased need for sleep
Changes in appetite or weight
Difficulty concentrating
Withdrawal from social activities
Loss of interest in usual activities
Heightened fear or insecurity
Poor immune health or susceptibility to illness
COPING STATEGIES FOR EASY TRANSITION
While winter blues can be challenging, there are several strategies that you can utilize to help alleviate its effects and improve your mental well-being:
1. Light Therapy:
Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, involves exposure to artificial light that mimics natural sunlight. This treatment can help regulate mood by balancing the body's circadian rhythms and increasing serotonin levels. Spending time outdoors during daylight hours can also be beneficial. If your geographic location allows for it, consider star-gazing – walk outdoors, connect with the universe on a Winter’s night.
2. Exercise:
Regular physical activity has been shown to have a positive impact on mood. Engaging in exercise releases endorphins, the body's natural mood lifters. Even a short daily walk outdoors can make a significant difference in combating the winter blues. A walk close to water, along the seashore or riverbanks is ideal. Swimming – especially in the sea or a large lake to increase your connection to flowing with the harmony of the season.
3. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle:
Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and getting sufficient sleep are crucial for overall well-being. Avoid excessive consumption of caffeine or alcohol, which can disrupt sleep patterns and exacerbate feelings of sadness. Take long baths or showers.
Here are some of the foods which are good for those who need to increase their Water element:
Salty and watery foods
Fish and Seafood
Seaweed
2-3 liters a day of boiled and filtered water
4. Stay Connected:
Maintaining social connections is vital during the winter months. Even if it's tempting to hibernate indoors, making an effort to connect with friends or participate in group activities can provide a much-needed mood boost.
5. Seek Professional Support:
If feelings of sadness or worry persist and significantly impact your daily life, seeking professional help can be incredibly beneficial. Did you know I offer seasonal repatternings? These are extremely rewarding in helping the body transition with ease and flow through each season and can be tailored to your individual needs.
YOUR ACTION PLAN
While the winter season can be challenging for many, what I really love is that it offers opportunities for:
introspection
coziness, and
self-care
Embracing activities that bring joy, such as reading, hobbies, or creative pursuits, can help shift our focus away from the winter blues. How about getting yourself a new puzzle?
Practicing mindfulness, meditation, or relaxation techniques can promote inner peace and resilience during the darker months. Leaning into the beauty of the season and the activities it can offer — snowfall, winter sports, or holiday festivities — can also create a more positive outlook.
Which one will you lean into this season?
IN CONCLUSION
The winter blues can cast a shadow on one's well-being, but it's important to remember that these feelings are temporary and manageable. By implementing coping strategies, seeking support when needed, and focusing on self-care, individuals can navigate this season with greater resilience and emerge stronger as the sun shines brighter in the coming days of spring.
Remember, taking small steps to care for your mental health can make a significant difference in combating the winter blues and embracing the season with a more positive mindset.
Choose one thing from this blog right now that you will carry out!
Take care and enjoy implementing these ideas as we all navigate this 2023 winter season. Please send me an email to receive a video recording of the winter seasonal group repatterning that I did for the Consciously Connected group. To request a personal repatterning for the season I’d be more than happy to set that up as well.
Namaste,
Heather
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