"So the darkness shall be the light, and the stillness the dancing" – T.S. Eliot
As I write this, I’m staring out the window from our Wellesley health centre into wildly blowing snow and am hunkered down with a big sweater and hot coffee. It feels like a real December moment, especially after the mild, sunny fall we’ve had.
In this time of colder weather and darker nights, how do we keep joy and light alive? It’s a question I reflect on each year as winter sets in. It’s no coincidence that many major holidays this time of year celebrate the light. How can we find energy and hope in these winter months? Not to mention, when you add potential layers of stress and life’s abundance of good and challenging (!) surprises. Plus, maybe the odd cold, flu, or travel advisory?
This season’s holidays could feel special and exciting right now, but also may bring up difficult feelings, pressure or expectations, or a sense of loss or even missing people. I find this can sometimes be a time of longing to go more inward and slow down, a time where winter can shift our focus and our energy in some ways. But life and daily life tasks may not match this desire.
At this time of year, I encourage you to reflect on what gives you a sense of hope, joy or peace. Are there small or simple steps you could take to move towards this and find your spark? What would help you or how can you be kind to yourself at this time of year? Sometimes the first step – even if a very small one - is the key to starting a shift. Perhaps something like making plans with a friend, going for a walk, or doing something fun.
If you are struggling, know that you are not alone in this – though it can feel this way at times. Please consider reaching out to friends or loved ones if this would be helpful. Or perhaps it might be a good time to connect with your medical provider or perhaps try counselling or psychotherapy if you are having a difficult time.
If you are connected to the Woolwich Community Health Centre, you can contact us to learn more about options at our sites. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, or you would like to learn more about local mental health services, you can contact Here 24/7 at 1-844-437-3247 or go to https://here247.ca/ . You could also contact the Counselling Collaborative of Waterloo Region to learn more about local counselling and psychotherapy services at 519-884-000 or go to https://counsellingwr.ca/
May you find some light and joy this season, however you celebrate.
Jannah Tudiver, MA, RP, CCC
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