Surviving the late winter blues and looking to spring

As the UK remains gripped in the late winter chill, many are battling the lingering effects of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Prolonged darkness and frigid temperatures have drained motivation and disrupted circadian rhythms. But there is hope ahead - spring is just 3 weeks away.

This transitional time as we await spring's arrival can be uniquely difficult. The coldest and gloomiest winter days are often in February. Fortunately, several strategies can boost mood and overcome the late winter blues.

Ways to push past the late winter doldrums:

• Maximise daylight by opening blinds, exercising midday, and walking outside frequently. Daylight prompts serotonin production.
• Stick to a regular sleep schedule. Limit blue light exposure at night to maintain healthy circadian rhythms.
• Try aromatherapy with energising citrus scents like lemon, grapefruit, and bergamot to uplift your mood.
• Stay socially engaged by scheduling video calls with friends and family. Loneliness worsens seasonal depression.
• Begin planning spring activities like hiking trips, garden planting, and home organisation projects. Having something to look forward to beats back winter gloom.
• Start a gratitude journal or jar to remember all you have, even on dark days. Regular gratitude practice boosts happiness.
• Light candles and cosy up with a warm blanket and a good book. Hygge habits create winter well-being.
• Consider booking a sunny getaway for later this spring to revive your senses.

If SAD or late winter doldrums persist, seek counselling support to develop targeted coping strategies. You need not feel stuck in this seasonal rut.

Spring: Opening up to new possibilities

After winter's freeze, spring's thaw brings rebirth. Emerging plant life signifies better days are coming. The gradual return of sunlight and warmth lifts our spirits and boosts motivation. Spring's spirit of renewal helps us envision long-term dreams again.

Ways to embrace the hope of spring:

• List hopes and goals on the spring equinox as a ritual of intention-setting.
• Try new hobbies that spark joy like gardening, painting, or hiking.
• Do an intentional digital detox to refresh your mindset.
• Reorganise and declutter your home to clear stagnant energy.
• Explore opportunities for growth through taking a class, learning a skill, or planning adventures. Spring prompts personal expansion.

Of course, change of any kind can also create anxiety. As your counsellor, I'm here to help you mindfully transition into spring. My goal is to provide a space where you can understand yourself more deeply through nature's transitions. Reflecting on spring's themes of revival can bring clarity to your own path ahead.

If you're feeling lost in the shifting seasons, know that you don't have to navigate them alone. As a therapist, I'm here to support you through life's changing seasons, especially challenging transitions like the late winter slump. My goal is to provide a caring space where you can openly explore your inner landscape and make meaning of your experiences. By tuning into nature's wisdom and reflecting on what each season reveals about your strengths and struggles, we can co-create targeted practices to realign your psyche.

My person-centred approach focuses on collaboratively understanding your unique needs so you can bloom into your brightest self this spring. If the shifting seasons have left you feeling disconnected, reach out. Together we can rediscover your inner compass, set inspiring intentions, and plant seeds of joyful change through talk therapy tailored just for you. My therapy services are available to empower your growth across the seasons.