Chasing the Blues, Day by Day

As we shift into December it is important to remember that there are lots of factors at play on our systems. As the solstice approaches, shorter days means less light and, for some of us, increased depression and anxiety. This can also be accompanied by a tendency to crave sugar, which we masochistically reinforce with holiday celebrations focused around sugar and white flour. Once in motion, the snowball grows. We avoid exercise, since we’re sluggish from haywire nutrition and easily dissuaded from venturing out into the cold, dark, wet weather. Hence, more depression.

What to do? The first step is awareness. The next step is a commitment to following through on that awareness. For example: Start the day with a couple of glasses of water — with a dash of lemon or lime or even cranberry, if you like. Then, take a big hit of your favorite protein, throw on your shoes and raingear, and hit the road, Jack. And I don’t mean a marathon. A simple walk around the block, ten deep breaths, and you’re good to go.

Remember — it’s often a physiological rather than psychological trigger that motivates our choices. So, let’s give ourselves a fighting chance by sending our bodies the right message first thing in the morning.