Blog
It’s not the weather but it's not helping!
This January I set out to ‘Winter’ well. I don’t believe it's the best time of year to make new resolutions but I had in mind a couple of things I hoped would help me through the dark of January and saying goodbye to the magic and lights of Christmas.
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A social media inspired idea to draw a picture a day of something that catches my eye or inspires my thoughts. I began to look for glimmers things that bring me joy or hope (often for me found in nature). I also noticed I enjoy the 5 minutes of sketching or playing with watercolours.
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Buying myself flowers. Having something in the house to make it beautiful, something nice to look at and bring nature indoors.
Glad to see the back of January in came February in all its grey, dark, wet and cold glory. I have had so many conversations about the weather recently. I know we are British and it's what we do but even more than usual I notice how the weather has exacerbated the challenges and low mood I and others feel.
So here I am writing a little about the things that may help. Small things we can do. Just ideas, some of which I do and others honestly, I don’t. Take what is helpful, leave what is not.
Vitamin D – I confess I have only taken one step in this direction buying the things and so far I haven’t taken them. But in the UK we get so little sunlight that we are recommended to take additional vitamin D.
Light – Wherever we can in all the ways we can. Getting outdoors in whatever daylight there is, is good for our wellbeing. Maybe it's a SAD lamp, maybe a bright bedside table lamp or some fairy lights. Light up your indoor spaces.
Permission to go and permission to stop – Socialising, being with friends and talking about our feelings can help. As can achieving our goals or taking steps towards them.
But... Rest is also valuable. Our bodies need it. Winter shows us how nature pauses, rests ready to rejuvenate and grow in the coming year. Perhaps we can take its lead.
Move your body – Exercise gives natural endorphins, walk the dog, run, swim, do a class or play a team game. Whatever form of movement you enjoy do it.
Colour pallet – Even for a short time looking at green leaves or pictures of nature can reduce cortisol (stress hormone) reduce anger and increase a sense of calm. I’ve also been thinking lately about wearing some bright colours. Red, orange and yellow are colours that are shown to bring joy and blue and green a sense of calm.
Please note that these are just quick little ideas of things that can help when the weather isn’t. It's not going to fix things. Be kind to yourself and if that low mood isn’t shifting talk to your GP or a counsellor for professional support.