The holiday season of 2020 will go down as one of the weirdest holiday seasons ever. Although the lights and trees were put up and the radio stations were playing the traditional music things did not feel the same. The pandemic and associated social distancing, absence of large gatherings, fear of dining in restaurants and a whole host of other changes to our holidays were unprecedented.
Even in the best of times, early January with the associated darkness, cold and holidays in the rear view mirror cause a significant amount of “blahness” that manifests as sadness, lack of energy and lower motivation. The “Winter Blues” are a common sensation experienced by many and this can range from mild symptoms to major depressive symptoms. This year has the potential to magnify the Winter Blues due to all of the aforementioned pandemic-associated impacts.
How do the “Winter Blues” play a role in weight control? When people feel more tired, less motivated and a relative lack of energy, it is more difficult to involved themselves in all of the aspects needed for effective weight control. Actively planning meals, feeling exuberant about reaching your goals, finding exercise time…these are all components needed for successful weight control. The Winter Blues can be a barrier.
The first step is to identify whether you are experiencing the Winter Blues and if so, there are steps that can be taken to help alleviate some of these symptoms. Ensuring good lighting is one of those steps as darkness around the house will only add to the blues. Sometimes, medical intervention is needed as well.
The spring is only few months away and every day there is more daylight. Staying focused on your weight control efforts is vitally important to your health and happiness. Do not let Old Man Winter detract you from your mission.