12/05/2025
The shorter days can take a real toll on our energy and mood. In this article that was published in our local paper, we share simple, powerful ways to bring more light, movement, and connection into the winter months. We invite you to take a few minutes to read and reflect.
As winter settles in, I find myself turning on the lights earlier and wondering how the day slipped away so fast. The shorter days and long nights can take a toll — less sunlight means our bodies produce less serotonin, which can leave us feeling tired, unmotivated, or even a little down. It’s something many of us experience this time of year, whether we call it the “winter blues” or simply feeling off our rhythm.
Over the years, we have learned that the best way to lift our spirits is to seek out light — in every sense of the word. A short walk outdoors, even on a gray day, can make a surprising difference. When it is too cold to venture out, sitting near a sunny window or using a light therapy lamp while reading the paper can be beneficial.
Movement also helps. Gentle stretching or chair yoga wakes up your body and clears your mind. Just a few minutes can shift your mood. And nothing gets rid of the winter chill like connecting with others — sharing coffee with a friend or attending a VKL program. Consider joining us at our Holiday Celebration on Sunday, December 7, from 2–4 pm at the Kentlands Manor. Walt Ware, who fills the room with familiar songs, will provide musical entertainment, and VKL will provide snacks.
When we neglect ourselves during this season — staying indoors too much, skipping social activities, or ignoring our need for movement and light — the effects can sneak up on us. Feelings of fatigue or isolation can deepen into sadness or depression, and even small daily tasks can begin to feel overwhelming. Taking care of yourself is not a luxury; it is essential. Just as plants turn toward the sun, we too need to seek out what nourishes and energizes us.
What can you do this week to bring a bit more light, movement, or connection into your days? Even one small step — a walk outside, a moment by a sunny window, or a call to a friend — can help you feel more grounded and energized during the darker months.”
