As a kid, the holiday season was never long enough. I mean, it’s hard not to fall under the spell of twinkling lights, comforting foods, and slow days that make you forget the existence of time. After the excitement of the holidays, it’s easy to feel the sudden let-down of a season consumed by the dream that is joy, hope, generosity.

Then, the tree comes down, the garland wrapped, the stockings tucked away. All the remnants of “the most wonderful time of the year” packed neatly (or, in my case, stuffed haphazardly like a drunk gremlin in stilettos) into totes.

It’s as if the magic disappears overnight…

…and it’s depressing.

Seasonal depression *is* a thing, you know. Scientifically known as Seasonal Affective Disorder, SAD is experienced by millions of folks every year. For those in the Northern Hemisphere during January, winter-pattern SAD is relatively common. It’s been found that light from the sun affects molecules that assist in regulating the mood-boosting chemical serotonin in the brain. Unsurprisingly, folks who experience winter-pattern SAD exhibit lower levels of serotonin in their brain. This quite literally leads to the sads (or, feeling rater blue).

So, the holidays are over AND it’s cold, dark, and miserable outside?

It’s no wonder we feel a bit down.

Or a lot down. I get it. There have been years when I’ve felt exhaustingly empty, unable to claw my way back to wholeness. However, I have learned a handful of ways to beat the holiday blues by crafting seasonal magic that continues well beyond the calendar holidays.

First, add a new plant…

or two. Maybe even three if you’re feeling feisty. For me, it’s become a January/February tradition to visit local nurseries, adopt a handful of beautifully potted plants teeming with delicate green tendrils, and head home happy. Plants improve the air quality in your home. Along with their air-cleaning capabilities, they are natural mood-boosters. Consider adding googly eyes for good measure.

Second, keep the candles glowing!

Candles are always in season, mortals. Their glow is calming, steady, and comforting in a world that is often chaotic and churning. Light a candle or two while making dinner. Pick up a handful of beautifully worn brass taper holders at a thrift shop and add them to your coffee table. Set aside time to lose yourself in the steady flicker and use that time to meditate…to dream a little. Your body and mind will thank you.

Don’t forget to try something new…

Take a moment to try a new type of tea. Take a trip to that new shop you’ve been meaning to visit. Step out of your comfort zone. Text that friend you’ve not spoken to in a while. Getting out of a rut can be hard — but it is important to take that first step. Allowing yourself to exist in an unfamiliar space may feel uncomfortable. But, it can also be a motivator towards more meaningful moments.

Create a little magic in your home…

Head over to an old antique shop (you know the sort) — where dust collects in cobwebbed corners. Find a treasure or two piled beneath stacks of worn pages, musty clothing, and old paintings. Adding a new piece to your space can change the atmosphere and your mood. Missing those strings of twinkling lights strewn about your home over the holidays? Grab a few strings of battery-operated or plug in lights to add to a cabinet, greenery, and darkened hallways. Magic comes in many forms — do not underestimate the power of changing your space to match your whimsy.

Number six on the list?

Cuddle with something fluffy. Pet a cat. Snuggle a dog. Volunteer at a local pet rescue and give love to all those creatures waiting for a forever family. Consider fostering in your home. Our furry friends are good for our health — boosting endorphins that help in our fight against the seasonal blues. …this might be why I have six cats and three dogs.

Finally, get your pretty ass outside!

Fresh air is fabulous. Go get some. Make a habit of getting outdoors every day. Take a walk around the block, sit on the back deck with a cup of tea, or bring a friend for jaunt downtown and have lunch on a heated patio. I cherish my time in nature even during the winter months — surrounded by sleeping trees and ice-covered brooks. These moments help reset my nervous system (much needed when the world feels so very turbulent).

So, what will you do, mortals?

As winter trudges on, the days become longer. The light is returning (even on the days we feel like we are drowning in darkness). So how will you make room for more magic during this time of cold, dark days? Tell me, mortals.

Love, light, & strength to you, always!