Bandage It Up...(for now)
'But how could you be sad, its the most wonderful time of the year!', I hear you say, sadly, the thought of pine trees and falling snowflakes induces loneliness, anxiety, sadness and pain for many many people around the world. For different reasons, people struggle with the festive season; perhaps due to the absence of loved ones, the terror of illness or the agony of heartache; compounded by moody moonless twilights and frosty foggy mornings. It is often in a time when one 'should' feel so happy and peaceful that our greatest demons come sneaking up for haunting. I have even realised that from September on, I start planning my gift wrapping theme, researching DIY festive crafts and organising my card posting list all while blaring merry carols, simply to drown out the feelings that come to fester my fears during the holidays. I know so many experts say that distraction is like putting a bandaid on a bullet wound; it may cover the problem but nothing ever heals. Of course, at some stage, we all must face our fears and dissect our darkness..but can't we wait until there's a little more light shining on and within our soul? I think that in order to survive this season, we must be soft to our delicate hearts and perhaps allow ourselves to fully engorge in whatever may help us. Sometimes, no matter how happy we 'should' naturally feel, we need a little helping hand; whether that be through wrapping yourself in tinsel and baking puddings all day long, joining a club, starting a new craft, volunteering or drinking hot chocolate and mulled wine with friends, families and strangers galore.

Go Natural
Nature boosts happiness levels, aids creativity, reduces stress, eases anxiety, boosts concentration and performs a million more miracles. One can go days during the cold season without golden rays of the sun falling upon their skin and warming up their hearts. In many Nordic countries, inhabitants are treated with special UV ray lights during the sunless months to boost both physical and spiritual immunity against bodily flues and mental blues. Many believe that nature is intrinsically connected with the rhythm of our bodies, spirits and minds. A breath of fresh dewy morning air, a splash of cold ocean water, a prickle of a sharp rose thorn and a gaze at the evening's sunset remind us what it is like to be rawly and truly alive. Every little problem seems so small and insignificant when we look up at the sparkling night sky. Through organic natural self care we can feel both humble and content while also treating each of our senses to the earth's delights.

Professional Help
Sometimes, all of the sunshine can not cure a broken heart, all of the hugs in the world can not mend a solemn soul and all of the candy canes can not calm a whirling mind. Sometimes, no matter how hard we try and no matter what we do, we need more thorough structured support and advanced professional aid. A lady once told me of a man she treated who, with every single year, once the leaves began to fall from the trees, would reengage with weekly therapy and return to his antidepressant dosage under medical recommendation. He was a capable, independent, well functioning man yet just like wrapping up in winter woolies he knew that in order to survive the blue season, he had to take precautions with his mental matters.  Reach out for help, talk to someone, explain how you are feelings; release the burden you are so bravely carrying alone and allow someone who cares for you to hold it with you. It may not instantly go away but I promise that it may just feel a little lighter. 

Click here to subscribe to my newsletter for updates on new blog posts. 



lots of love & peace & happiness


Lauren x