Winter

Ahh, Winter. Time to stay cozy and warm! Sometimes this means changing our
routines, staying indoors more, and being outside less. This may mean that we get less
sunshine, see our friends a little less, or spend less time being physically active. While we may
find the different pace of winter relaxing and comforting, it may also bring some challenges.
These shifts in our routines and activities can lead to shifts in our mood and overall sense of
well-being.

Exercise supports our physical health, but it also supports our emotional and mental
health. A change in activity level during the winter can greatly impact how we feel on a day to
day basis. Even if you don’t regularly exercise, you may notice a difference in the winter if you
are less physically active. What can you do in the winter if your usual physical activity is not an
option? Here are some ideas! Bundle up and try out a winter activity like snow shoeing. Or
stick with what you know, but find a new way to do it. If you enjoy long walks, but the weather
is too cold or the path too icy, try an indoor track, treadmill, or the mall. Create an exercise,
stretching, or yoga practice at home with a ‘you tube’ video, DVD, or a routine you create. Even
adding a few minutes a day of physical activity can boost your mood, energy, and sense of
well-being.

Did you ever notice your mood brighten on a sunny day? Mood can be impacted by
exposure to sunlight. In the winter, our daylight hours are shorter and often more time is spent
indoors. This can result in a decrease in energy, a down mood, or even more serious
depression. While we can’t change the weather, we can make some shifts to take full
advantage of the sunlight we do have. Try opening curtains or blinds in your home or sitting
close to bright windows. Spend time outside in the sun by taking a walk or just spending a few
minutes sitting outside. Getting outside on cloudy days can even help.

Winter can even have an impact on how often we see our friends. Summertime is filled
with social engagements, but in the winter, these seem to slow down a bit. Add to that the
uncertainty of the weather and increased frequency of colds and flus, and we may end up
seeing our family and friends a little less this time of year. Social connections are an important
factor for our mood and sense of wellbeing. How can you stay connected socially even when
winds howl and noses are running? First, continue to make plans despite the fact that they may
be postponed due to weather or illness. Utilize flexibility and acceptance when plans do
change. If you can’t see each other in person, then try chatting by phone or even Skype to stay
connected.

If you are gliding smoothly through the winter season, consider reaching out to a friend or
family member who may be hibernating. Connect over cocoa in person or by Skype or invite
them for a walk on a sunny day.
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If your mood has taken a dip this winter and you would like some support, please feel free
to reach out to me. As the Kesher social worker, I can talk with you about the challenges you
are facing and support you in making some of these shifts. If staying cozy and warm is the
challenge due to financial struggles, I can connect you with resources to help.