I’ve finally come to the conclusion I’ve got a case of the winter blues, or blahs. Whatever you call it, I’ve got it. And the strange thing is I started writing this post on Blue Monday without even realizing it was Blue Monday. In case you haven’t heard of it:
Blue Monday is a name given to a day in January (typically the third Monday of the month) reported to be the most depressing day of the year. The concept was first publicised as part of a 2005 press release from holiday company Sky Travel, which claimed to have calculated the date using an equation (Wikipedia)
**The idea is considered pseudoscience, with its formula derided by scientists as nonsensical
No matter. I feel lethargic and irritable, and I’ve totally lost my mojo (which I find extremely distressing.)
And as usual I have that guilt trip going on in my head about how could someone with my life and privileges ever be depressed, and what could I possibly have to complain about? and on and on and blah blah blah. Well, what can I say, I don’t understand it either. But there you have it.
And it won’t just go away. Nope, not over night at any rate. And so, I must take action.
So what to do about these winter blues? Well, the first thing I do is admit it.
There was a day I thought if anyone knew I was feeling (blue, anxious, sad, or depressed) it would cause the earth to come off its axis and fly off into outer space. So I suffered in silence, and let me tell you that’s the worst thing you can do. NOTE: I’m talking about a blue funk here (if you think you’re suffering from something much more serious, please, get up off your chair, and go see your doctor.)
Tips on how to beat the winter blues
- Recognize it. Talk about it. Admit it.
- Exercise. Preferably outdoors. I was reading about SAD on WebMD, and one thing that really stuck out was how important exercise is (which I know) but also how important it is to go outside, preferably in the morning, and for at least 15 minutes. I did not realize time of day made a difference, but apparently it helps to reset your circadian rhythm.
- Watch your nutrition. I’m still cleaning up snacks and sweets from Christmas! Time to purge the freezer and fill up the fruit bowl instead.
- Drink lots of water. I know I’m dehydrated because my skin has become so itchy, my lips are cracked and my nose is dry.
- Take care of yourself. Get a haircut, a massage, or a manicure. Or try a home Spa Day.
- Keep in touch with family and friends. Now is not the time to hibernate.
One of the things that has really thrown me this month is that I don’t feel like creating.
Some days it’s simply too much effort to set up a scene to photograph, and the thought “I’m done” keeps rolling around in my head. But I don’t want to be “done” and so I show up.
Showing Up is how the photo for this post came into being. I showed up and did the work. I was happy with the results, but please be aware that I have a hundred photos I’m not thrilled with; quite the opposite actually. But I did manage to get this one image and it will find its way into my portfolio. That alone has lifted a bit of my creative funk.
So to finish, I want to share this quote by Ann Tyler. Such simple sentences, but so so powerful!
*for personal use only
Please help yourself … just click on the image to download :)
Barb,
You are such a light in my life. I clearly know how you feel. That is why I posted the corner of my desk today in the studio.
I too am working on the positive sides of every day in The cold month of January ??
Thank Again Ann
Thank you Ann. I think a lot of people are feeling the same way … I haven’t been into the FB Group today, so I’ll go have a peek. Thanks again Ann … I so appreciate your support. xo
Barb,
How did you know I needed this today? This is absolutely spot on. Great tips, very simple and easy to try…and especially helpful for me, as I have been diagnosed with SAD but I can’t use a light box because it triggers my migraines! (I am seeing a therapist and am also on medication, but it’s not enough.)
I have to admit that it also cheers me up to know that it took you many tries to get the beautiful photo you posted today! I thought I was the only one…yours are so lovely I just have always imagined you effortlessly snapping gorgeous photo after photo.
You are a lovely person, Barb, and thanks for sharing yourself so generously both on this blog and through your art. xo
Thank you so much Barbara … I’m thrilled if my post helped you in some small way. I’ve “known” you for some time and do remember that you have migraines, but didn’t realize you also have SAD. I admire you so much for talking about it … it’s an important discussion! xo
I’m taking the outdoor exercise to heart and have been out before noon the last two days. It seems counter to my creativity, since I work best in the morning, but I’ve come to the conclusion that being outdoors in the morning will only help my creativity in the long run … and I can certainly spare 15 to 30 minutes! oh and PS … no I don’t find shooting still life “effortless” … just the opposite actually :)
Thanks Barb. Great post and deals with something we all seem to feel this time of year. I have been housebound for the better part of a week (snow and ice and I live on a steep hill)? So the blues and cabin fever have set in. I have ample time to create but cannot get motivated. I keep saying just do it but just don’t!!!
Thanks Pat … oh, I so know the feeling. Try sitting outside for a few minutes if it’s not too cold, and you have a safe place to sit. I hope you’re feeling better soon xo
Dear Barb, I am certain that your sincere words resonate with many and shed light on a much-needed topic of mental health –wheather minor or serious. I believe everyone deals with these blues in the month of January and I had no idea that the third Monday held the January blues title. See, you always teach and inspire. I, for one, adore you. I’m also happy to know that I’m not the only want to take hundreds of photos and just be happy with a couple. :) you make everything looks so perfect and I always look forward to your new posts. Glad you’re beautiful blues and greens coffee image helped you put a smile on your face and ours. Thank you for what you do and much love and a big hug to you, dear Barb. xox
Thank you so much Elle … you are the sweetest! xo
Hi Barb, Thank you so much for sharing. I just wanted to let you know that someone in another course I’m taking ( Beautify your Instagram by Emily Quentin ) posted a link to your lovely IG page because it is just so beautiful !
Caz xx
Thank you for letting me know Caz! that is so sweet – I appreciate it more than I can say xo
I’m not one to either take or push medications, but I’ve found that vitamin D really helps me at this time of year. It might be worth looking into. I agree that exercise and getting outdoors even briefly make a huge difference, too. Thanks for sharing, Barb. It always helps to know we’re not alone when the days feel especially dark.
Yes! Vitamin D … I just started taking it at the beginning of this year (hopefully it kicks in soon :)
Brilliant post Barb , one a lot of people can benefit from . As someone who has had clinical depression for many years and SAD in the winter I have to do the things you mentioned all the time . I know how you feel , I am finding it an effort to set up a still life lately , but there are others creative things I can work on , so I am going to go with the flow and let it come back when it is ready ?
Hi Lynn, thanks for stopping by … I did not know you had clinical depression and SAD. Thank you for sharing that … it took me a long time to realize that talking about depression (or anything for that matter) can really help to lift a burden, I guess because once we talk, we act. Hope you’re doing well xo
Barb you hit a nerve here. It’s exactly how I feel. My family and friends know that every January around this time I get a case of the blues! And it’s my birthday month! I am a big proponent of walking outdoors. Also getting out and seeing people. I have stepped away from stills for a few days also. Sometimes you just need to clear the head! Thanks for writing this and sharing. You always brighten my day!?
It’s so good that you recognize it Jean, and I appreciate you sharing here! I hope February brings us all brighter days! xo
I know that guilty feeling when you know there are people worse off me…but you know what? what you are feeling is real to you and that’s whats important. I agree with all the things you wrote to remedy it. Your MOJO will come back…I promise you! sending lots of sunny thoughts. xo
Thank you Kelly … our feelings are real, and yes they do matter. Thank you for your visit and your sunny thoughts xo
Oh I relate to this! I just came to the conclusion yesterday that in my case it’s stress over the state of my country. I try to stay away from the news, but it’s unavoidable. Your recommendations are good ones- especially exercise, which I’ve been avoiding (and I’ve also been sick). For me, dipping into an inspirational book is helpful too.
Melinda, as you know, I don’t live in your country but I had bad dreams last night after the news this week (you are not alone my friend) xo
Oh my gosh me too!
I’ve actually written a blog post about losing my mojo and feeling unmotivated…I just can’t finish it or post it! Lol
I also have been taking vitamin D since the beginning of the year. I think it’s helping with digestion too.
Thanks for this post, and your lovely image.
Kelly, I wonder what’s going on … so many people in a funk :(
Oh, and I also take probiotics for digestion :) they really help, especially acidophilus with bifidus
Oh, you hit it on the head Barb, definite funk. Let’s add exhaustion too. And let’s see what else can I add … (well you did say to talk about it!) Anyway, a little me and my camera time always picks me up and it’s a good thing we have each other to relate to about that. Seems harder and harder to find time for but I make myself make time ’cause I don’t want to quite either, nope, not gonna.
Yes, talk Karen … I haven’t been able to break completely out of mine yet … some days are better than others though. Thank you so much for stopping by!