02/04/2025
Did you guys know that the months of January-March are some of the toughest weeks of the entire year?
-Spike in divorce filings
-Spike in people quitting their jobs or changing career fields
-Increased reported rates of depressive/anxious symptomatology
-The dreaded "Blue Monday", known as 'the most depressing day of the year' (third Monday in January)
-Some of the shortest daylight hours
-Increased reports of financial strain
-Spike in common cold/flu and other communicable illness
My PSA for today is to encourage each of you to take on the mantra of "Gentle January/February". It's OK this time of the year to allow yourself to rest. For those of us who are experiencing winter, our primitive brains deep down want two things: 1) As much rest as possible, 2) Consume as many calories as possible. This is conflicting as we feel guilt for feeling internally compelled to slow down.
Some of us find relief in tackling this head on - getting to the gym regularly, being mindful of diet, staying up on household tasks, contractual obligations, self care, etc. Kudos to you!
Remember that BALANCE is just fine! It is OK for now to "skip another day doing laundry" or "leave the dishes until tomorrow", to get in those cozy warm clothes, do lots of cooking, embracing R&R. Why? Because many of us naturally won't feel this way in six weeks! You'll find that when spring rolls around, our volition and desire to want to be more active should naturally increase.
In positive news- those of us here in Montana are seeing approximately 2 more minutes of sunlight per day. That's an extra half hour almost every two weeks! It may feel that we don't have much to look forward to right now, but let's think down the line...do we NEED something concretely to look forward to right now? What's wrong with trying to embrace some rest and relaxation? Why do I NEED to make such significant changes in my life right now - am I sure I'm not being impulsive?
Thinking to ourselves, what are some (reasonable) personal goals you'd like to achieve during this time? Or for spring?
My goals are to make small dietary changes, make a sleep schedule goal (7-8 hours per night), and limit imbibing actions that exacerbate lethargy/depressed mood. I am also, always this time of year working on letting go and being more OK with not being as active as I normally am. (Do I need to feel guilty for passing on the gym today?)
If you feel like you are struggling with depressive, anxious, or other adverse mental health issues, please feel free to reach out. Starting this week, I've expanded my private practice one more day per week, and am excited to share I am openly accepting new referrals. You can reach me via text or call at (406) 351-0010. I accept most insurance plans, including Medicaid/Medicare.
Take care everyone! Happy "Gentle" January/February! Be mindful of the changes you are making, and show yourself some grace for taking life slow right now.
