Winter Doldrums or Winter Wonderland

 

Winter doldrums – have you heard of this concept?  I thought that this was just a saying however it an official medical term.  It is a temporary feeling of sadness or lethargy that some people experience during the winter.  It occurs during the shorter days of winter when there are colder temperatures and less natural sunlight.  Winter doldrums are temporary, not to be confused with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or depression which are long term and may require medical attention.

I have been feeling out of sorts in the past few days.  It is amazing how quickly the winter doldrums can sneak up on you.  Despite the amazing events and activities that I have experienced over the past week, I still feel out of balance.  The temperature has dropped, the cold winds are blowing which prevents me from being outside as often as I would like. 

Another reason for the winter doldrums could be coming off the holidays and New Year high.  Coming into the New Year, I set up wonderful intentions for positive change.  Two weeks in to the New Year, there have not been any miraculous changes which can be discouraging.  I have not followed through on all intentions.  This makes me frustrated however I refuse to give into this unsettled feeling.  I will not give up.

Does this sound familiar to you?  Are you already frustrated with breaking a resolution, or not seeing any results from changes that you have made?  Give yourself grace. 

1.      Remember that we are human.  Setbacks and failures are normal.  Most importantly, do not allow those setbacks or failures to define you.  Consider these as learning opportunities.  What can you do to have a different outcome next time?  Remember to celebrate the wins – no matter the size of the win.  Be happy with yourself for the win.  Take note of it so you can reflect upon the wins later.

2.      Give yourself grace.  You are a wonderful, talented person.  You will have ups and downs.  Don’t stay in the lows. 

3.       Take time to evaluate how you are caring for yourself.  What are you eating – are you eating more whole foods than processed foods?  Chemicals in processed foods have a huge effect on how you feel, physically and mentally.  What type of movement have you incorporated into your daily routine?  This could be as simple as taking regular walks, yoga, fitness programs – something that you enjoy.  It is amazing how a 15 minute walk in the middle of the day can clear your mind and re-energize you.  What is your sleep pattern?  Your sleep has a huge impact on all aspects of your life.  Create a relaxing space which can help provide a restful night’s sleep.  Keep technology out of the bedroom.  Get exposure to as much natural sunlight as possible.  If this is difficult, consider a light therapy lamp. 

4.       Spend time with friends and family who positively support you.  A phone call, coffee with a special friend, this is will energize all of those involved.  Hugging one another boosts the feel-good oxytocin hormone which then creates a stronger bond between the huggers.

If you have winter doldrums, SAD or depression symptoms that last longer than 2 weeks, seek help. 

We are on this planet to support one another.  Do not feel that you are the only one who gets the winter doldrums.  Once you acknowledge that you may be in a funk, try different techniques to reignite your energy.  The power is in you – you are an energetic, joyful being. 

Make it a great week.