As the weather changes and the warm weather changes to cooler, crisp air, less sunshine, and busy, demanding schedules, it’s not surprising if you’re feeling overwhelmed and lower in mood.
Many of our clients feel unmotivated, down, and easily triggered during this time of year. Feeling stagnant and blue is not surprising. Let’s be honest: The winters in Ontario can feel endless. Here are some ways to manage lower moods and feelings of depression during the colder, darker months.
Get into a routine
You have probably heard us express the importance of planning and solidifying pleasurable events into your calendar. The same can be said with a routine. Scheduling your days and keeping things consistent and structured can help you reduce stress. Introducing structure into your day can give you a sense of control. By managing your own behaviours and schedules, that feeling of control will be reintroduced to your daily life and can improve your focus, organization and productivity – just don’t forget to schedule your self-care!
Get outside
Working, managing family schedules, and keeping up with household chores can mean getting outside falls off the radar. It is, however, important to step outdoors, take a deep breath and soak in some vitamin D. Breaking up your day with a brisk walk can give your body some necessary exercise and also improve your self-worth. Staying indoors can make you feel stuck or stagnant, and while it may be comfortable to hunker down with the weather getting cooler, the benefits of being outside are certainly a reason to break that habit! Studies show that fresh air and greenery can reduce blood pressure, boost your energy and even provide you with inspiration and motivation to continue your day.
Get excited
This might seem like a no-brainer, but having something to look forward to always makes the days go by a little more quickly and excitingly. Embracing anticipation is known to have positive effects on your mental health. Make a bucket list and commit to the activities. Check out what’s happening in your town or city and book a ticket, make a reservation, or plan a hike with a friend. Remember to put these things in your calendar and add them to your schedule so you follow through.
What’s most important to remember if you’re feeling down, you’re not the only one. Trust us, we see many of clients having the same experience. Sometimes it takes more than tweaking your routine and commitments to move past negative feelings. Reach out to us if you’re in need of some extra support. We’re happy to help you help yourself.