Pandemic in the Winter

I can’t speak for everyone, but up here in mid-state NY I suffer winter depression. After the Holiday season, into the new year, I just get down in the dumps. The lack of sunlight combined with cold temperatures means there will be no spending time outdoors for me. This kills me inside because I LOVE the outdoors.

NOW …. during a pandemic, we really don’t have the option for indoor activities outside our homes either. This just amplifies the depression something fierce.

While I can’t speak for everybody, I believe I can speak for many of you out there. Winter depression is not uncommon.

Fortunately, there are practices which I have used recently that help to cure this depression:

1. Socialize! People are depressed now more than ever during this pandemic because more than ever we are not communicating with each other. We are instead finding solace in social media (which is a BIG DISASTER if done without intent). Just because we have to maintain social distancing doesn’t mean we have to be strangers. There are many digital platforms to permit us to be social beings again (Zoom, Skype, FaceTime, Discord, etc.). I suggest we all become not only familiar with some of these, but second nature with them.
2. Meditation. This is not the first time I mentioned this. Meditation practice help one be more mindful and more aware of themselves. It calms the mind so it can cure itself. Meditation sessions can be found free online in YouTube, Facebook, and other channels.
3. Yoga. No different than meditation.
4. Exercising. Make a regiment of it. Whether it is weight lifting in the basement/garage or hitting the peloton three times a week, DO IT. Always people are amazed at how quickly doing good has us feeling good.
5. Gaming – Take on a new hobby of gaming. Whether it is online, or at home with family, this is a healthy way to keep us challenged and social.
6. Read. I felt I had to put this on the list. While reading is difficult while in a state of depression (lack of focus), it is still an activity that might take us away from our thoughts.

Hang in there folks, we have two more months to go.