Stream of Consciousness Sunday: Beating the Winter Blues

I’m sure that Seasonal Affective Disorder is a real thing. But in a way, I think we’re all affected by the change in seasons. Some people are summer people (which I can’t quite comprehend). I personally love fall and spring. Part of it is the mild temperatures but mostly it’s the promise of change. In the spring, it’s the promise of warmer weather with the tiny blossoms and buds everywhere. In the fall, it’s the promise of cooler weather symbolized by the changing color of the leave.

And then there’s winter. It can be stark, and bleak, and downright cold.

Today’s Writing Prompt: How does winter make you feel and what do you do with those feelings?

Here we go…

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I realize I’ve been hibernating for quite a while. I’ve been inside day in and day out for what feels like years. I’ve mentioned before that I’m a temperate kind of gal – not too hot, not too cold.

Contrary to what you might think, I LOVE California but I wouldn’t want to live there. I would miss the change in seasons. I would especially miss winter. I’ve never minded winter but much like summer, I find myself hibernating more and more every year.

In the summer, I feel somewhat justified. Here in the south, it gets to be ungodly hot. And even when it’s not that hot, the humidity makes the temperatures feel unbearable. I can go outside to mow the lawn (fairly easy task with a self-propelled motor) and stop at least three times because I feel on the verge of heat stroke.

Lately, I’ve started to exercise. More specifically, I’ve started walking and running. And I’m doing it outside. I’ve never liked the idea of exercising inside even though a climate-controlled atmosphere has its appeal.

I’ve resdiscovered winter in the south. I’ve been making sure the temperature is above 40 degrees. I dress appropriately (I’m fine with the cold as long as I don’t get cold). And I try to make sure it’s a sunny day.

I ran today and it was a clear, crisp, cold, but absolutely beautiful day. It’s not winter I mind. It’s the dreary gray skies that bother me. So on those days, I’ll cozy up to the fire. But on the other days? I’m going to embrace the lovely winter blues.