Jennifer Russo

At a time of year when there seems to be cheer and goodwill in the air, many find it very easy to be joyful. There is just something about twinkling lights in the windows, holiday music playing everywhere you go, finding that perfect gift for your favorite aunt and looking forward to spending time with those we love. The bright colors and festivities are almost intoxicating.

For some people though, this is an extremely difficult time of year. It gets dark early. It gets cold. We may start to lack energy and sometimes we want nothing more than to hide under our warm blankets. Some may get a bad case of winter depression or SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). For those who are not close with their family, perhaps have been through a breakup recently, or who may have recently lost someone, it’s not all merriment and positivity. In fact, there are people that absolutely dread this time of year.

If you are one of the many people who feel this way, it’s important not to force yourself. Honor yourself for simply getting out of bed and taking on each day. Then, give yourself the challenge of finding the joy…any little bit of joy in anything during your day. I promise, it exists. Maybe it’s a baby laughing in a pure and innocent way. Maybe it’s your dog greeting you when you get home from work. Maybe it’s the sight of gleaming ice on branches. Maybe it’s a delicious cup of coffee or hot chocolate. Maybe it’s a song. Maybe it’s an item you scored on sale. Maybe that little bit of joy is simply giving that blanket a fresh wash, so it smells like a mountain spring. Whatever it might be, give it your full attention and recognize how much you appreciate it, even for a moment.

The next day – wake up and find another little thing. Then do it again. You will get through this.

Pose of the Month: Upward Facing Dog

Lay on your stomach, legs straight behind you on the ground and hands face down on the floor just in front of your shoulders. Now press up on your hands and into the tops of your feet on the mat, straightening your arms and stretching the back. Keep your shoulders away from your ears but draw your shoulder blades toward each other. This pose strengthens the arms and back, stretches the upper body and abs and promotes better breathing. It also stimulates the abdominal organs helping with digestion. Additionally, this is an excellent heart opener, which assists with combating depression and fatigue.