Hello February! “We welcome you with open arms”…. said no one EVER!
February in a “normal” year (whatever that may be) is tough. Some people experience the winter blues or seasonal anxiety disorder, and generally anxiety and depression increase during this time. Now we add on dealing with the pandemic, and for not just a few months, but almost a year. On top of that, those that are used to travelling to get that much needed dose of vitamin D aren’t able to. I know how I’ve been feeling, so I just wanted to check in and make sure you’re all surviving.
About a week ago, I felt down and was having a hard time shaking it. I teach the tools and regularly practice the spiritual “stuff” to deal with the blues, but this day I had a difficult time getting my spirits up. At first, I was upset at myself for feeling this way and then I realized it is what it is. Maybe my mind and body just needed a rest! So, I let myself feel all the emotions I was experiencing, began to move through them, and then I was able to release them instead of burying them. Anyways, I thought if I was feeling this way there’s a good chance that others are too.
We’re all connected. We experience much of the same emotions and feelings - it’s called being human. Which is why I believe it’s so important to share our emotions. I hope all of you have someone that you can talk to and someone you feel safe with. A person who doesn’t judge you, who will listen to you, and remind you that you matter! It’s ok to let ourselves be vulnerable; vulnerability equals strength.
So, what are you doing for self-care during this time? It’s really the little things we do for ourselves that will make a difference in our mental and emotional health. Some ideas I find useful are:
· Bundle up and get outside - nature does wonders for our mental health.
· Aerobic exercise
· Yoga
· Talk about your emotions with someone you trust
· Practice gratitude by starting a gratitude journal
· Certain supplements may help, for example Vitamin D (talk to your pharmacist or doctor)
· Take mini “breath” breaks throughout your day (Breathe in for the count of 3, hold for 1, and out for 3 - do this 5 times)
· Practice joy moments as you drift off to sleep at the end of your day (You can do this by naming 3 things that happened throughout your day that brought you joy - you want to fall asleep thinking about positive things, because whatever you’re thinking about will percolate in your mind throughout the night)
Remembering that we’re all in this together and that lots of us are struggling right now may help you to be more accepting of your emotions and provide a sense of comfort. Honor yourselves, respect what you’re feeling, and don’t judge yourself! We are all doing the best we can during these times.
I’m available if anyone needs to talk - you can message me privately. I would also love to hear how you practice self-care - write in the comments below your favorite ways!
Until next time…hang in there! By the end of February, the sun won’t set until 5:41 pm. Woot Woot!