The Post Holiday Blues and How to Beat Them

Its dark early, there are no more Christmas lights, no more presents to buy and no more big expensive dinners to anticipate. The trees are bare, and folks are back to "business-as-usual". No wonder this is a big time of the year for depression and the hardest time of the year to get motivated.

How do you fight this?

First of all, sit down and make a list of all of your goals for the year. Separate them into categories so you have a balanced view of what you want to accomplish. Don't forget to have an Adventure and Entertainment category! It can be as mundane as wanting to see 25 new movies this year, or as exciting as going on a safari in Kenya. Just make sure they are doable, and motivating to you. Next, hang this list in a place where you can see it every day. Every morning, take a look at these and imagine how you will feel when you have accomplished them.

Secondly, go to your iPod or computer music interface (iTunes, RealPlayer, whatever you use) and set up a Motivating playlist. Download songs you find personally exciting, like " Eye of the Tiger" - and play them whenever you find yourself starting to slump.

Aromatherapy is another great way to lift spirits in a minute. Essential oils, placed in a small burner, can change your mood very quickly. I suggest Bergamot or Peppermint for a quick pick-me-up. If you don't want to invest in essential oils, which can be quite expensive, try Earl Grey Tea - which is made with Bergamot.

Keep a journal during these dark months, and try to write down what triggers negative thought patterns and moods. This is often recommended for depression patients - if you can rephrase your trigger thoughts, you can defeat them!

Taking brisk walks (well-insulated against the cold) can also help keep spirits high, as well as give you needed exercise.

Pick out a favorite movie that always leaves you feeling good. If you have a particularly bad day, take the night and watch your fav flick along with a large bowl of popcorn. Invite a good friend if you need company.

One thing that always helps me at this time of the year is writing. Set up a blog, or join a community blog site that will allow you to pour out your thoughts and feelings. You will be amazed at how many people share your feelings, and will respond to you. Expression cleanses the soul!