It’s that time of the year where we are through the rush and excitement of the holiday season, and things to look forward may seem few and far between.
The “winter blues” are very real. The days can be cold and the hours of daylight are short. If you’re looking for some validation for things you may be feeling, here it is: it may sound like a bit of a cliche at this point, but the message remains; you are not alone in this, and so many of us are struggling as we speak. Throw in a global pandemic with travel and social restrictions, at-home learning for your kids, and working from home — and navigation through these feelings can become even more tricky.
Through recent conversations with farmers, Lesley Kelly, co-founder of Do More Ag, has compiled a list of some of the things she’s both learned herself, and learned through others that can help:
- Have a daily routine — get up at the same time every day
- Get outside for some physical activity, even just a walk
- Set goals and break down the steps to achieve them
- Work on projects — whether it be in the home, in the shop, or off-farm
- Plan something to look forward to, like a vacation for when we can travel again
- Take an online class for some continuous learning
- Practice gratitude
- Consider light therapy (especially for those with seasonal affective disorder)
- Listening to music or dancing or both!
- Reach out to others to give you that kickstart.
Taking that first step is sometimes the hardest. If you are facing a depressive stint, the basics like getting out of bed in the morning can prove to be very difficult. Reaching out to others — creating that group chat to check in with each other — can be that extra kick that helps start that routine. However, it also can be a matter of really paying attention to what makes YOU happy. Despite COVID-19, our schedules can still be chaotic, and taking that time to do things you enjoy can also make all the difference, says Kelly.
“Looking for a small thing that will really make you happy or bring you joy during one of those dark days or dark moods can be a real game changer,” she explains.
If you are struggling and want more resources, visit the Do More Agriculture Foundation.
Want to hear more? Listen to Kelly’s full discussion on the t0pic during this Q&A!