Don't Fall Back

Now that we are back to Standard Time and it is dark by 5:00, and the weather is turning colder, it’s easy to become deflated. This can lead to being less active, picking up unhealthy habits, and even depression. Don’t let yourself get sucked down those rabbit holes.

When I was working I didn’t mind when it got dark early because I was at work and wouldn’t have been able to do anything fun outside anyway. This year turning the clocks back hit a bit harder since retirement has given me time to do more of the things I want to and I like being outside as much as I can. Thankfully, without being on Zoom calls all day, I can still get my activities in during daylight hours. And with daylight starting earlier now, it may actually help me get my butt out of bed a little earlier to start my workouts.

Here in the Northeast, Standard Time came in on a chilly, rainy, gray day, hammering home that fall is here and winter is approaching. An illustration of the dark mood this time of year can bring. With all the fall chores – raking leaves, putting the summer yard stuff away, getting the snow moving equipment out and ready, and winterizing your home – it’s easy to focus on the negative. However, each of these chores has a positive side – the amazing fall colors that transform the landscape into a giant train set, getting that firepit setup for gathering around on the cool evenings, the beauty of fresh snow (and since you are retired, there’s no rush to shovel it), and the opportunity to gather up stuff you don’t need anymore and maybe donate it to your local thrift store.

By focusing on the positives we can avoid falling into seasonal blues. And with the holiday season coming, there are a lot of good things to look forward to. A bit different this year for sure, but don’t let that put a damper on your holidays, enjoy time with family and friends - in a safe way. For us, Thanksgiving Day will likely be a solitary event, but our family is meeting outside the day before to do a food exchange. Everyone is making their usual side dishes and packaging portions for each family. In that way, we’ll be able to see the family in a safe way and have all the usual dishes on our table for Thanksgiving. Being creative in how you gather will help energize you, and the result might just surprise you.

If you are reading this before election day – PLEASE VOTE!

If you are reading it after election day, I hope you exercised your right to vote for the candidates who best fit your ideals.