The birds are starting to chirp. Our “Oh My God ” screeching bird makes itself known. Honestly, he says that.
Sunlight peeks out over the clouds.
I start to feel a bit more uplifted.
It’s March, so it’s coming!
“No winter lasts forever; no spring skips its turn.” – Hal Borland
We can turn to this quote when we start to feel overwhelmed or unnerved by the cold or the grey. Growing up in Pittsburgh, we had alot of grey. Here in Charlotte, there is less, but Winter still exists with its bare trees and lack of color.
I’ve always had a difficult time with it, mentally. Feeling quite tired and restless, I seem to “perk up” at the sign of birds, flowers and sunshine.
SAD Symptoms- Seasonal Affective Disorder
I’ve never been formally diagnosed, but if you have symptoms such as:
- increased irritability and anxiety
- lack of motivation
- persistent sadness and low energy
- desire to sleep in more
These are a few symptoms. There are days where I want to just not do anything, but I make myself to combat this feeling.
According to the NIH,
Studies indicate that people with SAD, especially winter-pattern SAD, have reduced levels of the brain chemical serotonin, which helps regulate mood.
What Can You Do?
I think I have said this every year for the past 10 years, but have never acted on it. A short getaway in those winter months, might be something to look forward to and just lift your spirits. Next year, since my mother is now down here, we might do a “girls trip” to Amelia or AnaBelle Island. Something to change the mindset about the Winter months, especially January for me.
When there is sunshine, sit outside. Even if you aren’t actively doing something, the Vitamin D and sun should boost the mood. Sometimes just listening to music while sitting in the sun can boost your mood.
I have read this everywhere- exercise. Yes, it does help for a while. Although doing the same thing day after day doesn’t necessarily help with mood, go to the gym or get outside, and change it up. Endorphins “kick in” and the happiness factor does as serotonin levels rise. Try different exercises, so to keep it fresh and not make it a chore. If it is sunny, take a walk or run.
Volunteer- I know that even when I am not in the best of moods, once I visit then leave the shelter, I am singing in the car on the way home. The same endorphins and rise in serotonin levels happen when you visit your “happy place”. “Doggy Therapy” is key for me!
If you find yourself really struggling, one on one therapy can help sort out your feelings and leave you feeling better.
