Work has been piling up this month. Lots to do at my day job for people who suddenly want it done a month ago, never mind that they asked for the first time today. I’m in the market for a time machine if anyone happens to know where they’re in stock.
This also happens to be the month when all my crafty ideas for Christmas presents finally click in my brain. I could easily sit on the couch, making beautiful things from now until I need to start driving to Grandma’s. But there’s also shopping and wrapping and….
See? Stress! And cue the glucoaster (BG’s soar and crash, egging each other on). This season isn’t hard on me diabetes-wise because of temptation. It’s the mile-long lists and the very short days. It’s the same thing that can make anyone blue, not just people with diabetes.
This year, I’m drawing on a new attitude, though. TeamWILD has taught me to think of myself as an athlete first. And this athlete isn’t going to let this seasonal depression take hold and send her for a nap. Here are some of my tools and strategies:
Wishful thinking turns the grass green?
Becca, my superhero of a service dog: She needs her walks twice a day, no matter the windchill or lack of light. I appreciate her ability to get my most resistant self out the door. As long as I bundle up enough, I am always glad for that bit of fresh air.
Friends: last weekend, I’d nearly forgotten about a spin class for T1′s, but Scott Johnson texted me with just enough time to get there. I couldn’t let him down, so I went. I don’t usually require a workout buddy to make me keep my workout commitments, but I’m finding that to be a critical piece this year so I’m going to stack up some appointments with people who motivate me.
My first ever spin class
Snow sports: The snow a couple of weeks ago had me excited to gear up (hopefully renting) to try skijoring with Becca. Now, the weather in Minneapolis has been more Seattle-like, thwarting my excitement, but it is time to think about skis. My classic skis are from high-school and still have the 3-pin boots and bindings. The boots are disintegrating so I either need new boots and bindings or a whole new package. Anyone know if I can use the same boots for skate-skis and diagonal stride? If so, I have a plan…
I also want to meet up with some new friends to try snowshoeing again. And once the lakes freeze, I’m going to drag out my skates. My focus in all of these is more about having fun and getting outside than careful training, but I won’t mind a little cardio boost in my weekends.
These are some of the ways I plan to stay healthy and happy this winter. For a more expert view on combating seasonal depression, check out active.com’s article on the topic. And, please, share your own tips, tricks and goals in the comments!
