It’s a gray November morning here in the northeast. The days are short, the sky is dark, and it’s cold. Winter is definitely coming! Those of you who know me, or have followed my blogs for a while, know that winter is my least favorite month. I’ve learned that although I don’t really like the cold, it’s the lack of light that really messes with me. Coupled with the fact that I work from home, where I often spend hours alone and can easily convince myself pajamas are fine for all-day wear, it’s a slippery slope from cozy hibernation to something a little darker.

As the season jumps into full swing, I have to take charge of my mental health in a very active way. My general disposition is positive, and I’m usually energetic and upbeat. During the dark days of winter, not so much. But, over the years, I’ve learned the most important thing I can do when I’m not feeling my best is to be gentle with myself.

There are times when we need to power through, like during a good workout when we know we can go for a few more reps or dig for that last burst of speed. Sometimes, though, we deserve a kinder approach, or a softer motivation. Sometimes, self-care needs to be our priority. If we recognize our own rhythms and work with them, we may find equilibrium more quickly, and the dark days may not seem quite as long.

“When the well’s dry, we know the worth of water.” -Benjamin Franklin