Ways to Avoid a Seasonal Funk
Dec 22, 2019
Are you Experiencing a Seasonal Funk?
It's inevitable - the seasons are changing, the temperatures are dropping and the amount of daylight is minimal. Winter is a time when the rate of seasonal depression increases and people suffer in a funk for months. During the winter, I tend to spend more time hibernating, however I have a list of some of my favorite things to do to keep things fresh and avoid a seasonal funk:
- Fresh air - yes, it's cold and living in Vermont it can get VERY harsh. However, I know if I get outside and perform some sort of recreational activity, I feel rejuvenated, refreshed and re-energized for days. Some of my preferred recreational winter activities are: snow shoeing, sledding and snowboarding. Other options are: going for a walk (watch out for slippery sidewalks), snowmobiling, building a snowman (no matter your age!) and ice skating.
- Reading - it's easy to get caught up in the mindlessness of watching TV or scrolling social media, but these things don't satisfy me as much as curling up in a comfy chair, with a nice cup of coffee or tea, soft lighting and an exceptional book. I find it more stimulating to the mind and much more enjoyable.
- Puzzles - I know, I know call me an "old lady" or whatever you want BUT I have ALWAYS loved to puzzle. There's something about the pursuit of a piece, finding it and putting it in the one and only perfect place that is so satisfying. I love to puzzle through the winter months with soft music on in the background, a glass of wine or a cup of tea and my husband by my side.
- Cook - okay, okay, I will be the first to admit that the majority of the cooking in our home is done by my husband, Alex. However, I do love the process of finding a recipe, making it and implementing our own touches to make it an original. It's comforting being in the kitchen, sitting at the island while Alex cooks or working together to make a meal for our family.
- Workout - as a runner, working out outside can be a bit challenging throughout the winter months but when the sidewalks are cleared and ice isn't a concern, I love a long winter run in the crisp air.
Ultimately, I think seasonal depression or the seasonal funk threatens all of us. If you can find a handful of things that spark enthusiasm in your life and have them lined up for when you get that funky feeling, you can minimize your risk. Help yourself by identifying the things that make you feel good and then pursue the activities that lead to happiness and joy. Get out of your own way and take care of YOU.
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