Winter, for many people, is a time of coziness, warm blankets, and cozy evenings by the fireplace. We better not use the Central Heating too much when you look at the costs. LOL.
But winter also has a downside. For just as many people, it can also mean a period of challenges and mood swings. Unfortunately, I fall into the latter category. There was a time when I loved winter. I hated summer before, but loved winter. In recent years I have noticed that this has become the other way around. I am having more and more difficulty with these dark months.
My motivation seems to disappear into nothing, I quickly get distracted and end up in endless worry. The result? Less energy and the feeling of having achieved nothing at the end of the day.
It often starts innocently. In winter I notice that I tend to stay awake longer and stay in bed longer in the morning. This means I lack the much-needed dose of daylight, resulting in an irregular rhythm and even less energy. A vicious circle that does not improve my mood, not to mention the potential health problems that a lack of daylight can bring.
Fortunately, I am aware of the danger of approaching winter blues. In the first week, I often don't even notice it, but in the second week, the realization starts to sink in. By the third week, I give myself a well-deserved kick in the butt to turn the tide. There is no point in staying in a downward spiral. I don't help anyone with that, especially myself. If I want to move forward, I have to take action!
Yesterday I realized that I was unconsciously in danger of falling back into my unhealthy pattern. To give myself a boost, I decided to spend extra time outside with my dogs and catch some precious daylight. After we came back in the house I could see that they appreciated this. Lol.
Today, despite a slow start, I applied the same strategy. But I have also been honest with myself. I MUST take a different approach! Going to bed on time tonight and getting up on time tomorrow is the first important step back in the right direction.
However, I don't just want to highlight the disadvantages of winter. Let me be clear, every time I go outside I realize how lucky I am to have the space around me. The horses that greet me, my faithful dogs, and the birds in the garden allow me to enjoy the beauty of nature every day.
It's important to embrace these little moments of happiness, especially during the dreary winter months. So, starting tomorrow I will get up on time again. I can give those winter blues a chance to win over me.
Because this has unfortunately now become a recurring problem, I also know that I have the power to change my habits. Every day is a new opportunity to enjoy the nature around me, even if the days are shorter and the nights longer. Winter may be a challenge, but I swear, I will win this challenge. It's not the first time, and it won't be the last, but I'm determined to make the most of this time. And to take my health and mental well-being very seriously.
