Beating Winter Blues

Hello, friends!

Before I even knew it, another week has come and gone, and in a matter of days, January will have gone as well. Time is certainly flying.

I don't know about you, but I get the blues this time of year. I don't know what it is about the cold, the grey, and maybe the post holiday slump (?) that makes me feel both lethargic and melancholy; this is a bad combination! I'm not depressed, just feeling a little like I have the blues.

Here are some suggestions I have for beating the blues. I have already started them, and it seems to be helping!

• Eat lots of fruits. I like to eat oranges and imagine I'm on a tropical vacation. Something about fresh fruit makes you feel like you are eating the sun. Weird, I know. But don't tell me you didn't smile when you read that.
• Try a new exercise class. I started going to yoga at Ombodies here in Mount Pleasant with my good friend Shelly. It's a really great studio (especially for varying skill levels). Heather (the teacher) is very patient, which is wonderful because although I imagine myself looking like Hilary Swank in the Karate Kid III while I do these poses, I'm pretty certain I actually look like the love child of Gumby and the Incredible Hulk. In spite of this, it makes me feel good to try something different. Quite a refreshing break from my normal running routine.
• Spend time in prayer and the Bible. I am absolutely guilty of putting my quiet time on the back burner when things get busy-- horrible excuse! However, I noticed I was feeling edgy, impatient, and sad. Taking time to connect with the Lord really has helped me feel better, and more peaceful. After all Philippians 4:6-7 says, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (7) And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
• Call your close friend. Most of us have at least one friend we have had for a long time and can count on through thick and thin. If we are extremely blessed, we have more than one. I am blessed and humbled by my friends that have become more like family. Sometimes, I need to stop the hustle and bustle of daily life and connect with my friends. I just spoke with two of my closest (a married couple) on the phone last night. It's amazing how friends that feel like family can lift your spirit with just a phone call, even when they are all the way across the country!

These are a few of my tips for beating the winter blues! While these things all help, it seems the best thing to do is wait it out. I'm also resolved to make this month extra special. I shall change the name from "February" to "Funuary" and attempt to have lots of fun both at work and play. We shall see, I suppose!

Stay warm and keep your chin up!

Sarah

p.s. below is a pic from the ice sculpting festival in Frankenmuth last weekend! It was totally neat!