It’s been a minute. I’ve been taking my hibernation semi-seriously and posted no blogs in January and sent no newsletter (this was somewhat intentional… :) It’s been good to rest, but sometimes the hibernation can turn into stagnation and despair (Seasonal Affective Disorder/SAD anyone?), especially with all the gray days. Can you relate?
Here’s what has been helping me balance rest and turning inward with hope and the return of the light….
No surprise here- SPENDING TIME OUTSIDE (if you read any of my newsletters or know me at all, you saw this one coming). Even when it’s gray, even when it’s cold, and especially if the sun ever peeks her head out. Have you heard of 1000 hours outside? It was started by a woman here in Michigan as a way for her family to spend more time outside and less time in front of screens. There’s a website, podcast, app, social media, and lots of resources. I love the app and use it to track my time outside. It’s a great motivator (which sometimes we need, especially in winter)! In 2022 I made it to 1000 hours outside on my birthday, December 28th! (Just barely made it). But in 2023 I made it to 1000 hours in mid-November. I’m hoping for even earlier this year!
A YOGA PRACTICE that meets my SAD mood where it is and gradually increases energy. Check out the Instagram Reel I just posted on Yoga for SAD! With SAD, even getting onto the mat can be a struggle so first, meet the mood where it is (thanks to Amy Weintraub for first introducing me to this concept in the yoga world, very similar I think to "meeting the client where they're at" in social work). This would look like starting slow and low (to the ground), meeting the depressed mood with gentle movements and breathwork. Always listen to your body to explore what would feel best for you right now.
Then gradually build intensity- this doesn't have to be intense sun salutations or power yoga, but add in some flowing movements, some patterns of movement that help you get out of your head and into your body.
Add lightness and fire with rapid breaths and/or movements, standing, shaking or flowing. Again, listen to your body- you are your own best teacher. Find what types of techniques best help you activate and find energy and joy.🌀 ✨️💕
Connecting with FRIENDS & COMMUNITY. I often struggle with this one, but every time I put myself out there and text that acquaintance I want to hang out with more or show up to the event by myself, the universe brings connection. And it fills me up. So if you’ve read this far, let me know if you want to go for a winter walk or maybe even do some outdoor winter yoga (Whaaat?! It can be brief and standing, don’t worry!) or we can get cozy indoors somewhere with a cup of tea.
I have some things in the works, but they’re not quite ready yet. It’s like the seeds underground right now. Starting to move, to activate for spring, but not quite ready to sprout. We’ll all get there, I know it. In the meantime, check out all my various FREE online offerings for yoga and meditation.
Some final thoughts: Don’t despair. Winter won’t last forever. Sometimes winter sucks, but sometimes she’s pretty magical.
(Disclaimer: This is not intended as a substitute medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult with your medical provider or therapist with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition or treatment.)