7 Tips For Navigating Shorter Days

Photo by Pavan Trikutam on Unsplash

Daylight savings time has officially ended, which, in my area, means it gets dark by 5 pm. This can be a tricky time of year for many people. The days feel much shorter, our time outside is limited, and the world can feel lonelier and more isolating. Many folks now find themselves starting work before the sun has risen and ending after it has set, which can leave 6 PM feeling more like midnight than dinner time. To say this can have the potential to feel quite draining and overwhelming would be an understatement.

Also read: 4 Tips For Navigating Change

The shorter days are temporary, but nonetheless, they can feel never-ending and can take a toll on us. It's okay if you require a little extra care and attention on your needs. You deserve to feel your best all year long. With that in mind, here are some tips for dealing with the shorter days ahead. 

7 Tips For Dealing With Shorter Days

1. PREPARE YOUR SPACE

I believe in the importance of organizing all year long. In fact, I recently published a blog post going into more detail about why organizing is so important. However, as we begin transitioning into the cooler, darker months, I believe it isn’t a bad idea to spend extra time focusing on your space. 

Maintaining an organized home benefits your mental health, allows you to take stock of what you have, and easily find what you need -  all of which are especially important when you are spending more time indoors. Our homes should be a place that builds us up and contributes to our mental health, as opposed to a place that leaves us feeling overwhelmed and stressed. If you can, I would recommend preparing your space for this new time by spending some time organizing. If you need any tips or advice on where to begin, check out this post here.

2. KEEP IT COZY

One challenge during the darker months is feeling trapped in our homes, as though we'd rather be outdoors or doing something more enjoyable. However, when we prioritize having a cozy, comforting, and well-organized space, we can feel more warm, welcomed, and like we are exactly where we want to be. During this time of year, I like to light candles throughout my home. The soft light from the candles is not only gentle on your eyes but creates a calming environment. Plus, it leaves the house smelling wonderful. If you’re not interested in candles, other great options include fairy lights, diffusers, or using lamps instead of overhead lighting. Use what you have available to you, and keep it cozy.

3. EAT WELL 

Food is fuel: it gives us the strength required to carry out the activities in our day and feel our best to thrive. This does not mean going on a strict diet, but rather, making sure we have the nutrients necessary to feel our best. Make sure you are eating enough and fuelling your body with the nutrients it needs to feel your best all season long. Prioritizing boosting your immune system and enjoying a balanced diet that can include little, delicious treats, too!

4. STAY CONNECTED

Let’s face it, sometimes, when it’s dark in the early evening, it can feel challenging to leave the house or make plans with the people we love. This is part of the reason why these months can feel more isolating. Sometimes we need to be a little more intentional with our plans and our time to make sure we’re still seeing our friends and family. Make plans to go out for dinner with your friends, have your family over to your house, or even spend some time chatting on the phone with those who live far away. Whatever it looks like for you, make it a priority to stay connected with the people you love. You never know, they may be struggling with the darker evening, too.

5. GET OUTSIDE

While the days are shorter than in the summer, there is still typically sunshine during the day at some point in most areas. If possible, try to prioritize spending a few minutes outside when you can. This could look like going for a short walk on your lunch or finding an outdoor activity to do during the weekend. A little vitamin D can help recharge our bodies and can help us have a little easier time during the season.

6. MOVE YOUR BODY

Not only can endorphins help us feel good, but regular movement can also help us improve our sleep. The change of seasons and the shorter days may begin to impact our sleep schedule as it can throw off our circadian rhythm. Our circadian rhythm is basically our internal clock that tells our body when it's time to be awake and when it's time to go to sleep - but when it's getting dark earlier, it may feel a little thrown off. Whether it's a walk, some gentle yoga, or a run, movement throughout the day not only can benefit our health, but it can benefit our sleep schedule, too. 

7. PRIORITIZE YOUR MENTAL HEALTH

The darker months can seriously impact our mental health, from feeling the winter blues to experiencing SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). More than anything, as the seasons change, I want to encourage you to prioritize your mental health. Check in with yourself frequently, focus on self-care activities that build you up, and remember that it’s okay to reach out for professional help. These months can be tough on just about anyone for various reasons, and there’s no shame in acknowledging that you need support. Services like CMHA can offer great resources for folks struggling during the darker months, and reaching out to your doctor can also help. Be kind to yourself, love yourself, and remember that spring will be here before we know it.