Hi First name / friend --

 

Every year, usually around when the calendar hits January 3rd,* I become way more tired, grumpier, and less motivated to do my normal routine. 

 

For me, my regular programming includes reaching out to my people – family, friends, clients, and non-clients alike. The other week, one of my dear friends from my group chat side texted me, "Is everything okay?" (Thank you for noticing, H!) I just hadn't been feeling myself.

 

You might have noticed too, as I've skipped a few weeks of emails. Here are my excuses:

1. My calendar has been bananas!

2. Getting back into the swing of things with the kids: school, activities, homework.

3. A new puppy is taking up all my time; and the real reason:

 

Do you ever feel the same, coming off of all the hoopla of the holidays?  I do, almost every year. I've been hearing similar stories from many of my clients, too. So, what can we do about the winter blues?

 

Here are some techniques you can do to combat them (note: these ARE NOT a replacement for seeking mental health treatment, if that is what you need):

 

1. Try as hard as you can to continue with your routines. For me, this means making it to the gym, connecting with friends, and getting a good night sleep.

 

2. Things like a UV light lamp, my BELOVED sauna blanket, and cold water swimming.

 

3. When you're feeling down, instead of answering "fine" or "busy" to the question "How are you?", share how you're really feeling with your close friends. It helps to recognize it and say it out loud.

 

It might be a challenge to open up in the beginning, but it takes a conscious amount of effort to get yourself out of the blues out and feel better again.

 

Then, when all else fails – and I know this is not an option for everyone – book a trip to the SUNSHINE. 

 

I'm taking a spontaneous trip to sunny Florida in a few weeks, and just thinking about it now already makes my day brighter. (Have you ever heard the science that looking forward to a trip is as pleasurable as being on it? How cool is that?) 

 

If a trip is not an option, how would it feel for you to have a date with a friend to look forward to? Can you schedule that today and put on your calendar? Maybe even sign up for an event that looks interesting?

 

Would love to hear from you about anything you do to combat the winter blues.

 

Sending lots of love and sunshine,

* My winter blues coincide with the yahrzeit (jewish term for death anniversary) of 2 people I loved. If this is you, too, sending hugs. 

 

PS. Speaking of events that sound interesting, I'm going to this wardrobe exchange event on Feb. 9th. Join me if you want!

 

PPS. Would anyone be interested in a day-long retreat in the early Spring? My friend, Eve, and I are thinking of putting something together. Reply back if so :)