Hold On for One More Day

There were moments when the darkness felt heavier than hope.
When breathing through the day felt like an act of courage.
In those times, one song whispered what Laurie needed to hear:

Hold on for one more day.

So she held on when letting go felt easier.
Then held on through the ache, the fear, and the exhaustion.
She held on tightly—because somewhere deep inside, a small voice reminded her:

Your life matters.

If today feels unbearable, this is your reminder, too.
Hang on tightly.
Hold on.
Don’t let go.

You don’t have to see the whole path—
Just stay for one more day.
Hope has a way of finding those who stay.

 This article says that with the warmer weather comes a spike in suicide rates. Who would have thought it? I thought the rates were higher during the winter when so many of us seem to struggle with depression more.I want to use my words to give someone hope and help them hang on for one more day, and one more day after that.

Seasonal Affective Disorder: Winter Blues

Don’t let it steal your joy.

Thriving through the winter,

Ways to thrive, not just survive, when struggling with S.A.D.

 In today’s post I am showing you some great resources to find and fill your self-care toolbox with ways you can not only survive but thrive in the winter when struggling with the blues or seasonal affective disorder.

Winter Mental Health Hacks: Staying Balanced Through the Cold Season

Ways to hold on for one more day. As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, many of us find ourselves struggling with the winter blues. Seasonal changes can take a toll on mental health, leading to increased feelings of sadness, fatigue, and isolation. But with a few mindful strategies, you can protect your well-being and cultivate serenity and harmony even in the darkest months. Here are some winter mental health hacks to help you stay balanced:

1. Prioritize Sunlight Exposure

Winter means less daylight, which can impact mood and energy levels. Try to get outside during the brightest part of the day, even if it’s just for a short walk. If natural sunlight is scarce, consider using a light therapy box to help combat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

2. Keep Moving

Exercise is a natural mood booster, releasing endorphins that help reduce stress and anxiety. Whether it’s yoga, stretching, or a full workout, regular movement can keep your spirits high. If you don’t feel like heading to the gym, try an at-home workout or a dance session to your favorite music.

3. Stay Connected

Winter can feel isolating, so make an effort to stay in touch with loved ones. Schedule video chats, plan cozy gatherings, or join online support groups to maintain social connections and prevent loneliness.

4. Nourish Your Body and Mind

What you eat impacts how you feel. Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods like leafy greens, citrus fruits, nuts, and lean proteins. Consider vitamin D supplements if you’re not getting enough sunlight, as low levels can contribute to depressive symptoms.

5. Create a Cozy and Uplifting Environment

Your surroundings can influence your mood. Add soft lighting, warm blankets, and comforting scents like lavender or cinnamon to your space. Creating a cozy atmosphere can make winter feel more inviting rather than oppressive.

6. Set Gentle Routines

Establishing a routine helps maintain structure and stability. Set small, achievable goals each day—whether it’s journaling, reading, or making a warm cup of tea. Gentle structure can create a sense of control and accomplishment.

One way I have found to get through the worst of times is to listen to Music to encourage and uplift. Favorites that come to mind are Wilson Philips Hold on for one more day and Journey Don’t stop believing.Use  creative expression. Get out art supplies and let it all out. Express your feelings through a creative outlet.Most important perhaps is to talk to someone. If you find it feels like no one is listening. Keep trying to find someone to listen. PLEASE DO NOT GIVE UP!!There is a quote I have seen floating around. I don’t know who said it first. “Talking about your mental health is not attention seeking!”One way to prepare for the worst days is by having a list of folks you can call or text when you need someone to listen. Write down everyone you can think of that you can call on with their phone numbers. Put that list somewhere handy when you feel you are in a danger zone.Here is a blog post that I found that has uplifting quotes for when you feel like giving up. Don’t give up!!Find a distraction by watching a funny sitcom on TV. Escape into a good book. Maybe take a nap.Make sure to take care of yourself and reach out and get help when you need it. Please do not give up on yourself.I needed to come back and edit. Despite Pain has a really great distractions from pain post that has a lot more great ideas to add to your toolbox.August to Autumn is a post I wrote about the masks we put on when struggling with depression. I hope that it offers someone the knowledge that they are not alone and the encouragement to reach out for help. We need to all work together and help break the stigma of mental illness.We need to let others know they are not alone and that there is hope and help. I know so many people that have struggled with depression and mental health issues and try to hide it. They should not feel shame for struggling. They deserve hope, help, and  happiness.I am working on some self-care projects to share with you.  It is more important to take care of yourself than ever. As we enter the winter season, folks will be struggling with seasonal affective disorder.  Add that to what is already going on, and it is very important we work at improving our mental health and letting those who are struggling know that it is okay. That they are not alone.“Winter Blues: Thriving Through the Winter”The challenges and opportunities presented by the colder months, is time for our bodies and minds to rest and restore.  In this narrative, winter becomes a season of introspection and renewal, where the slower pace and shorter days offer a chance to recharge and reflect.  What does thriving through the winter mean?  Resisting succumbing to feelings of lethargy or melancholy, individuals embrace the unique gifts that winter has to offer, finding ways to thrive in spite of the cold and darkness.One aspect of thriving through winter involves embracing seasonal activities that foster connection and joy. This might include cozying up by the fireplace with loved ones, engaging in creative pursuits like painting or writing, or venturing outdoors for invigorating winter sports like skiing or snowshoeing.By actively seeking out activities that bring warmth and light into their lives, individuals can combat feelings of isolation and ennui that often accompany the winter months. Another key element of thriving through winter is practicing self-care and mindfulness. This might involve establishing a daily routine that prioritizes rest, nourishing foods, and movement, as well as incorporating mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga to cultivate inner peace and resilience.By nurturing their physical, mental, and emotional well-being, individuals can build a strong foundation for thriving in any season. Finally, thriving through winter also involves embracing the beauty and wonder of the natural world, even in its harshest moments.Whether it’s admiring the intricate patterns of frost on a windowpane, marveling at the stillness of a snowy landscape, or listening to the quiet hush of falling snow, finding moments of awe and gratitude can help shift perspective and foster a sense of connection to something greater than oneself. In essence, “Winter Blues: Thriving Through the Winter” encourages a mindset shift from one of survival to one of thriving, inviting individuals to embrace the challenges and opportunities of the season with resilience, gratitude, and joy.

Self Care: You Are Worth It

https://www.schneiderpeeps.com/vintage-skills-for-a-modern-life

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