Are you Preparing for the “Big Dark” in the PNW?

The Big Dark, as many are referring to it is the abrupt shift from the long sunny days of summer, into the cooler and much shorter days of fall and winter that are on our doorstep. 

For many this can affect not only schedules and routines, but also can have a profound effect on energy, mood and motivation.

This can feel even more challenging if you are leaving home for school or work in the dark and driving back home in the dark.

A little forethought and preparation for this “season” can actually go a long way if you are someone greatly affected by this.

Consider the following:

• Do you have a history of depression, seasonal affective disorder, or mood issues this time of year?  If the answer is yes, you may want to consider now, a schedule shift and game plan for things like when you will engage in self care.  Purchasing a seasonal affective disorder light can be very useful for some that are prone to seasonal depression. Consider what else can help you through this time.

• Create any revisions in your work out plan. Create a work out plan if you don’t have one.  It might have been fun to do lots of things outdoors in the summer, but if hours of sun and daylight are no longer available, then what?  Will you work out at home, at the gym or in a specialized facility that offers dance, yoga or an indoor pool? Be sure your  work out plan includes what you will do and when.

• Consider what you might still do outdoors. Some people hike year round- or replace golf with an indoor sport.  It is important to our health and wellbeing that we still move and that we still connect with nature, so even walks in the park can be mood lifting and beneficial.

• Pay attention to your diet.  It can be easier to eat out of boredom or not move as much in the fall and winter.  Be sure you are meal planning and making eating a healthy diet priority.  There are foods that affect our moods… so research to see what foods are uplifting and which foods may be making your mood or anxiety worse.

• Manage a consistent sleep schedule.  Since sleep has a profound affect on our mood, energy, immunity and overall quality of life, it is imperative that we find a sleep routine and schedule that works for us and create a consistent bed time and wake up time.  Staying in that circadian rhythm can make a big difference on many levels so don’t skimp on sleep!

Preparing and having a plan can make this transitional season one that you can embrace and enjoy rather than dread. Additionally, create some fun outings that you can only do in the fall and winter to enjoy, spend time with those you love, engage with your community and keep the fun in fall and winter!