Change Of The Seasons

 

"Spring passes and one remembers one's innocence. Summer passes and one remembers one's exuberance. Autumn passes and one remembers one's reverence. Winter passes and one remembers one's perseverance." -  Yoko Ono

 

Seasonal changes bring additional changes. As we get closer to the seasonal change from the end of summer into fall, we start to feel a change in the weather. Fall brings back cooler nights, darker mornings and shorter days. We have to move from days of wearing t-shirts and shorts, to sweaters and pants. Then, there are the changes for families who are faced with adjusting their schedules and daily routines as children go back-to-school.

 

Though many people consider spring to be a time of fresh new starts or new beginnings, fall can also be that for many people. It is a time of reflection on the summer and the year thus far, as well as a time to prepare for the winter and upcoming holiday season. As we enter the harvest season, consider the physical, emotional, and relational ways you may be affected by this transition.

 

I can still remember, as a child, feeling a bit sad that summer was ending. Well, some of that was attributed to the nervous anxiety of going back to school, I'm sure.  But even to this day, at my age, I still sense a little bit of sadness that summer is ending.  Through life, I have learned to enjoy the beauty that all of the seasons bring. But still think that summer has always been my favorite. Thus I've always approached the transition into fall with a bit of nostalgic heart.

 

As I researched a bit about this, I realized that I am not alone in these feelings. Many people actually struggle with seasonal change affecting their mood and mentality.  This is commonly referred to as 'seasonal affective disorder' (ironically, also known by the acronym SAD), which is a depression related to the change in seasons.

 

For most, this begins in fall and continues through the winter months. It’s marked by moodiness, low energy, difficulty sleeping, a lack of interest in activities and relationships, feeling hopeless, and an overall sense of depression. Known more casually as “the winter blues,” SAD can have a significant impact on your mood and relationships. If you are more irritable, withdrawn, or moody during the winter months, the time to plan and prepare is now.

 

Be aware of any changes or swings in your feelings, attitudes and moods. You may feel tired more often, or even lazy. Maybe you struggle to get out of bed in the morning. Are you easily annoyed or irritated, and less patient? Are you finding any shifts or changes in your relationships?

 

Awareness is key, as well as knowing that there are some simple solutions to help you navigate through any of these emotional changes.

 

• Physical Activity: Get up and move! Regular exercise will have positive effects on your physical and emotional health. Intense workouts are great if you can do it, but you don't have to train for the Olympics! Brisk walks around your neighborhood, light calisthenics like push-ups or sit-ups are also helpful. Heck, even running around outside with your kids can create the same benefits.

 

• Have Fun: Play games. Listen to great music. Sing like no one is listening, dance like no one is watching (because they probably aren't. LOL). Look for ways to just enjoy yourself.

 

• Get Out And Enjoy Nature: It doesn't have to be summertime to get outside. Just being out in the fresh air can prove to be beneficial.

 

• Get Organized: Getting organized, de-cluttering bring do wonders for your emotional state. More relaxed, more refreshed, more at ease. Do it! You'll reap the benefits!

 

• Set Some Goals: Create a task list and start working to check them off. The sense of achievement, accomplishment and productivity do wonders for the psyche. There's nothing quite like the feeling of getting stuff done!

 

• Enjoy Great Conversation: Talk with a loved one, a good friend, a colleague or co-worker. Share your feelings, thoughts and experiences with others people.

 

• Create Positive Habits: Start off your day in a positive manner. Focus on your blessings. Start with gratitude and thankfulness for life as it is.

 

Understanding and responding to your needs will help you prepare for whatever season is approaching. Find things that work best for you. Find joy in the little things. Live in the now. Life is what you make it.

 

Make today great!

 

Curtis

 

"That old September feeling, left over from school days, of summer passing, vacation nearly done, obligations gathering, books and football in the air ... Another fall, another turned page: there was something of jubilee in that annual autumnal beginning, as if last year's mistakes had been wiped clean by summer." - Wallace Stenger