I’ve known about Seasonal Effective Disorder (SAD) for over a decade now. Each winter, for a few weeks, I’d notice a melancholy feeling. My summer tan was long gone and my surrounding often looked gray without the burst of fall or spring colors. I just wasn’t as happy or peppy. Was I addicted to the sun?
Last winter, I really questioned the SAD feeling when we had several back-to-back snow storms (rare for the area). I worried that ho-hum feeling might try to slide in but I was working hard to change my cellular memory and DNA. I told myself SAD no longer served me.
I keep thinking of the song, Soulshine by the Allman Brothers Band.
Well you got to let your soul shine, It’s better than sunshine, It’s better than moonshine, Damn sure better than rain. Got to let your soul shine, shine till the break of day.
I’m a flip flop kind of girl but got bundled up and enjoyed some outdoor time. Snow makes everything seem new and, if the sun is shining, the reflection will warm your soul. I enjoyed walking in its freshness and saw it as a blank slate.
So, what can SAD teach you?
Maybe the question is more, what is your soul trying to teach you? With each lesson I’ve learned, the problem/situation/symptom stopped presenting itself. Maybe a time to remember you inner light and strength – an invitation from your soul. Maybe you are too busy to truly listen to your soul in the spring, summer and fall.
Maybe you should be resting more and taking time to curl up with a good book. A time to pull in and refuel. Or journaling or painting.
Just ask yourself, what would make my soul happy today? Maybe a chi tea or toss a blanket in the dryer for a few minutes and then curl up with it. Maybe paint a room a bright color. Stop watching the depressing news and find a comedy or listen to happy music. Call a friend, go to lunch, do something that would bring you joy. Or, volunteer at a homeless shelter or SPCA. I’d bet there’s someone out there who needs you.
If your SAD seems severe, reach out for professional help. Do not suffer. You are too amazing to suffer! Take care of yourself.
Remember this is just a season and the sun and warmer days will be here again soon. I believe, you gotta let your soul shine!
About the Author: Molly Brown
A few years ago, at the age of 39, I left my career and home town and started fresh. Crazy and scary – an understatement, but at the time, it felt like a necessity. I’d have no idea what I really started was an amazing spiritual journey which is now my passion and lifestyle. Now living along the coast of North Carolina, I AM a mother of teens, a fiancé, a writer and… spiritual being who is very human. I feel blessed to have learned all that I have and wish to share my perspective to encourage and inspire other soul seekers. Let evolve together! For more information, please visit my personal blog at: http://2020spiritualvision.wordpress.com/
