Time for a mental health check-in, y’all!

Spring is well on its way and the changing seasons always tend to bring a shift in how we feel – at least, that’s what I find. This past year in particular I have been very impacted by the weather, I find it has a huge impact on my mood! We have been having all sorts of weather lately in the Okanagan (including a crazy snow storm recently!) but it feels we are finally getting to the point where warmer weather and longer days are in our sights. Here’s hoping the classic saying “April showers bring May flowers” will be true!

With these changes, including more sun and light, it feels as if better days are ahead. I don’t know how to explain it fully, but it feels like I am slowly coming out of a very dark and dreary time – and into a time that is lighter, more free, and much happier. It is a much-needed mood boost for me after a particularly challenging winter.

Shifting seasons, particularly into warmer seasons, tends to bring out the desire to get out more and enjoy fun activities, rather than being holed up in your house (as I was for much of the winter months). I have definitely been feeling the urge to do all of the things with longer and sunnier days. However, this can be a slippery slope as it can be easy to quickly go over-board and overwhelm yourself. I am 100% guilty of this as I want to do EVERYTHING once the weather is nicer! I need to continuously remind myself that we can’t possibly do everything, and I need to take things one step at a time. Time management and identifying priorities are super key in times like these. Honouring boundaries and ensuring time for rest is also crucial so you don’t burn out before the real fun begins! (I’m looking at you, summer!!)

One of my key priorities lately has been spending time with friends and those who truly “fill my cup,” as they say. Dedicating this time for connection has been very important for my mental health. I do believe that connection is so vital and having more opportunities for face-to-face connections have been amazing! Another key priority for me has been healthy living. I am continuing to workout, focus on mindfulness and gratitude, and fit in my weekly spin class – such a big gamechanger! I have more energy and generally feel better when I dedicate time to moving my body and taking care of it. Considering it has taken me a long time to get to this point, I am pretty damn proud of it. The journey is never-ending, but the ride is pretty damn great.

With all of that said, what are some of the ways for you to focus on your mental health during these changing seasons?

I would start with identifying your key priorities and ensuring they are plugged into your schedule as non-negotiables. It is so easy to get wrapped up in our busy lives, and it is important to take time for yourself and the things that are important to you. Ensure you also schedule time to rest and recharge, as you don’t want to burn out from increasing your activity (especially if you are coming out of winter hibernation like I am!). Being mindful and present with whatever you are doing in the moment is also huge – enjoy what you are doing! Our lives are meant to be enjoyed and by focusing on the present, hopefully we can soak up those moments of joy even more.

I hope you are finding ways to care for your mental health and soak up joy as we head into this new spring season. If you are facing challenges right now, know that you are not alone. Know that there are people who support you and love you, and if you don’t believe that is true, then you simply haven’t found the right people yet – but you will. Don’t hesitate to reach out for the support you need! Sending love and light to all of you. <3