After a long winter, I can’t help but feel a little down. I’m one of many people who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). I initially thought it was kind of a bogus diagnosis, so I ignored it.
Years passed and my symptoms continued, every year, around the same time. So I decided it was time to look into this and what I found offered me reassurance and options. According to the Mayo Clinic website, SAD is “a type of depression that’s related to changes in seasons — SAD begins and ends at about the same times every year. If you’re like most people with SAD, your symptoms start in the fall and continue into the winter months, sapping your energy and making you feel moody.”
People ask me if I use a light lamp…(I don’t). If I take a prescription… (I don’t). For me, getting outside to take walks, hikes, or run, regardless of the temperature, has been the biggest saving grace. Fresh, crisp winter air with my dog in the woods. Adding any outdoor winter activity to the regimen is key. I’ve played paddle tennis (sometimes also referred to as platform tennis), snowshoeing, x-country or downhill skiing- all have helped. In my opinion, it’s the combination of time to think and work your heart.
Lately I’ve been taking my camera on walks to add something more creative to the mix. It’s been fun to pay closer attention to details that surround me on my journey. Sometimes I capture wonderful photos, other times I end up deleting many of them. While I certainly don’t have the answers for everyone, this is what has helped me and regardless of how you deal with winter, more mindfulness and exercise certainly can’t hurt. Does the winter make you feel a little blue? What do you find helps?
