Like clockwork, and like many of us, you may feel yourself regrettably falling out of the holiday buzz that helped carry you through January. We’re drowsily stumbling into February – the shortest month of the year, and generally the quietest. We find ourselves hoping the sun will linger just a moment longer each passing day, anticipating those lovely spring afternoons that seem to be almost within our reach. We remember the breathtaking sights of nature in full bloom, witnessing the grass emerge in vibrant green from its winter slumber, seeing leaves sprouting on the skeleton-like branches they left behind last fall, and finding the flowers reawakening for another opportunity to show the world their beauty. So close, yet so far.
Let’s take a moment to conquer the blues of winter! Glide through February with a sly smile, knowing we’re one month closer to picnics in the park, tanned skin, and watching the sun set from our (warm!) backyards. Remaining active and pushing ourselves during this month will be a tough, but rewarding task. Avoiding a sluggish state of mind, let’s remain focused and determined. Maybe take advantage of an occasional warm, sunny day by taking a jog around the neighborhood. Is there an at-home workout we’ve meant to pop into the DVD player or online? Let’s do it! We will show Jillian Michaels or Tony Horton, or even Richard Simmons (for those with ’80s nostalgia) that we’ll succumb to no one, no matter how much our trembling legs say otherwise.
Remember the saying, “Eat your fruits and veggies?” Let’s eat them! Proper nutrition and healthy eating will truly boost that positive attitude we’re working hard to maintain. A well-balanced diet will provide us with the energy we need to accomplish the tasks we’re seeking to complete during the day. Overflowing with positive energy, think about picking up a new hobby: go for walks, ride a bike, knit, write a blog, learn an instrument or a new language, tackle your tax return… the possibilities are endless!
Enjoy time alone. There’s nothing unhealthy about diving into a novel, meditating, balancing the checkbook, or taking a long solo drive. Be sure to take the necessary time to unwind and relax. There are already enough thoughts, actions, choices, and decisions to be made during the course of a day – there’s nothing shameful in you relishing a little bit of “me” time. Balance and moderation are key factors in any successful goal.
There! Now do we feel prepared to tackle the last of winter? We can, and we will! Let’s keep our bodies and minds at full attention while we eagerly daydream about the warm days ahead. As we accomplish our daily goals with poise and enthusiasm, who can stop us? Nobody.