Winter days often roll out like the rest of the year, a mix of good and difficult times, positive and challenging experiences, moments of motivation, and moments of relaxation. However, what can make the experience of winter more difficult for our mental and emotional health is the expectation or anticipation we tend to hold around the holidays, the physical experience of cold temperatures and additional dark hours, along with the added busyness, socializing, changes to routine, etc.
So, because we know that these days can be an extra challenge to our mental and emotional health, below are some activities that can help give us a little extra care and attention as needed.
Your Mind as a Snow Globe
This one is really beautiful and a nice compliment to the season. Envision your mind as a snow globe. When shaken, everything is swirling around and it is difficult to clearly see the scene inside. Remind yourself that the swirling will settle down more quickly if you do. Still yourself and, in your mind’s eye, pick out one snowflake and watch as it slows and eventually settles on the ground. Do this as many times as it takes to feel more calm. Additionally, remember that a busy, snowy season is just that, only a season. The below video is a beautiful visual of how things will always change with time.
Morning Sunshine
It can be so much harder to get outside and get the vitamin D we need for our best physical, mental, and emotional health during the winter months. There is some incredible research highlighting the importance of exposing ourselves to morning sunshine first thing when we wake up to get our circadian rhythm, hormones related to mood and sleep, etc. moving in the right pattern and direction. If you can, throw a big coat or blanket over your pajamas and get a few minutes or, even if you are not outside, drink your coffee in front of a window, looking outside. If you are interested in more of this information about morning light, check out this video from Stanford professor, Dr. Andrew Huberman.
To finish reading about the third tip, “Embrace the Dark Hours” please see the full post with Partners in Prevention here!
Anne Rulo 