Winter Wellness: Forget the Cold and Shine Bright

The holiday season, a time of joy, cheer, and endless shindigs, will often bring unexpected mental and emotional challenges. For many women (and men), especially those in business, the pressure to maintain a balance-of-sorts between work, family, and personal wellness is overwhelming—even if we don’t show it. Coupled with the shorter days ,colder temperatures, and much less color in the world,  the risk of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can impact productivity, your level of happiness in the holiday season, AND your mental health.

 

So, Let's First Understand Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

SAD is a type of depression that occurs seasonally, typically during the fall and winter months. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:

• Persistent feelings of sadness or irritation at what seems excessive happiness in others
• Loss of interest in activities
• Sleep disturbances; maybe you can get to sleep but can’t stay asleep or vice versa
• Fatigue or unexplained tiredness
• Difficulty concentrating or going from one task to the next and not completing any of them
• Changes in appetite, more or less depending on how you react to being a bit down
• A sense of "Ugh" from cold and lack of color that trees and blooms create

But What's The Impact, Especially For Entrepreneurs?

It’s known that business owners, especially women, often shoulder multiple responsibilities. Experiencing higher levels of stress that can decrease our natural protections (the body's defenses) from mental health issues. The added stress of SAD can exacerbate feelings of burnout and overwhelm in both personal and professional lives. It is absolutely crucial to recognize the signs and take steps to prioritize yourself FIRST..Yes...time away from "home stuff" and "business deadlines".  I call it “checking out to check back in”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Now The How...Nurturing Self During the Holiday Season

• Prioritize YOU:Make time for activities that bring you joy, such as time alone with all electronics on silent, working out (even just a walk will do), or meditation.

• Set Realistic Expectations:Avoid overcommitting yourself and learn to say no when necessary...it is, after all, a complete sentence.

• Connect with Loved Ones:Foster strong relationships with friends and family who support and uplift you. Don't forget family can be whomever you say it is.

• Seek Professional Help:If you're struggling with SAD, consider consulting a mental health professional.  No shame in having a therapist on speed dial!

• Embrace Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself and avoid self-criticism.  We are notorious for being our worst critic...STOP IT.

• Practice Gratitude:Focus on the positive aspects of your life, no matter how small. Keep a notebook and jot down 3 things that didn't suck every day before bed, refer to it often.

 

 

The Final Say Is This...

By prioritizing YOU and taking steps to manage SAD, we can thrive during the holidays and any other season. It's okay to not be okay, and seeking support is one of our superpowers!  Let’s gooo!

 

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