One of the things that has helped me through winter with a smile on my face is music!
I love to listen to uplifting and happy music. Music that makes me want to shake my booty. Music like the link above!

Having been a northern native most of my life you would think I’m used to it but I’m not. My mind is filled with soft warm breezes and the swaying of palm trees and sun kissed skin.

If you’re facing a harsh winter this winter, I hope that you find ways to beat the winter chill and winter blues in healthy and happy ways. Like music or a hobby that you enjoy. I know it can be tempting to turn to alcohol or binge-watching television, but goodness knows that’s not the way to manage mental health. Because when it comes to the dark days of winter it can be a mental health issue for many, including myself. I don’t expect it to happen every year but I can say that I am at least prepared.

It has helped me loads to not feel ashamed about it should the winter blues arise. I’ve come to a place of acceptance about encountering this and I’ve chosen to be gentle with myself. Not all people are cut out for this kind of weather nor the isolation that comes along with it.

Winter tends to feel less heavy after the holiday hump, as the days stay lighter for a little longer each day, my heart is filled with gratitude for the sunnier and warmer days ahead.

Imbolc is just around the corner, signalling the beginning of spring on 1st February. Once called Lá Fhéile Bríde (Irish) but often referred to as Saint Brigid’s Day. It’s a day of the year that I like to make a nice meal, give thanks for having conquered the cold weather with my loved ones. It is also a time that I like to begin to bring spring into the house, change the decorations on my altar to spring flowers. It’s a day where I really zero in on any sign of spring outside so that it expands within my experience. Is the snow melting? Do I hear the birds singing? Notice the sun staying out longer?
It truly is the little things when you’re enduring something that you may not necessarily want to. It’s the little things that when strung together end up being the very thing that keeps you afloat. The more negative the thoughts get, the darker your vision. So I am a huge advocate for finding all of the good that I can in each day.

I hope this tail end of winter finds you well and feeling more hopeful for brighter and lighter days ahead.

Blessings xx