[podcast] 5 Ways to Beat the Winter Blahs #008

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This week, after a Lenten check-in, we are talking about the Winter Blahs that we can all be prone to this time of year. For some easy ways to combat the blahs, boredom, and frustration of late winter, I share the following ideas:

1) Enjoy a guilty pleasure.
Think of something you have enjoyed in the past but maybe don;t make time for anymore, and indulge in it! Make time for a movie marathon, or a book club, or going through old photos, or whatever pleasant thing will switch up your routine and refresh your soul.

2) Go outside.
Getting some fresh air and sunshine will lift your spirits and give you a boost of energy. Find an outdoor activity to engage in with your family or make any excuse to get yourself outdoors, even for just a little bit this week.

3) Clean something you see every day.
So much about the “blahs” we feel this time of year comes from our surroundings, so switch it up! Super-clean and spruce up or decorate a space in your home that you see every day. Give yourself and your family something simple and beautiful to enjoy in your home. Then every time you see it, your mood will get a boost!

4) Take a trip.
If you can afford the cost of a small family trip, go for it! But there are also many things you can do that cost no money at all. Check out activities and places in your community where you and your kids and maybe some friends can see or explore something new to refresh your senses this time of year.

5) Make a mess.
There are many fun things we say no to or avoid because we just don’t want to deal with the mess. Well, this time of year, say yes to the mess. Do something or allow your kids to engage in something that takes you a bit out of your “clean” comfort zone. Cooking, baking, crafts, sewing, and play-doh (here’s a recipe!) are all great ideas. Make the mess and enjoy the lift in spirit you get from doing something out of the ordinary and fun.

In this week’s interview, I talk wth Sarah Vabulas of CatholicDrinkie.com. Sarah shares from the perspective of a young, single woman living, working, sharing, and writing in the Church today. I am so grateful she took the time to share with us on this week’s show.

This week’s Girlfriends Shout-out goes to Brenna. Audra wrote to tell me about all about her and how awesome she is. Brenna is going through some tough times living with and sharing space with her in-laws while saving money for a house, and her charity and patience really inspire others. Way to go, Brenna! We are so proud of you, and your friend Audra loves you and is grateful for your example in her life. 🙂

This week’s challenge is to think about the things we discussed about the 5 ways to beat the Winter Blahs, choose one and use it, to improve your life or a friend’s life in the coming week. Then let me know how you’re doing and how you are working at beating down those blahs in your life.

I want to thank listener AMHancock for leaving me reviews on iTunes this week. The reviews help so much and are so encouraging to me! I would love it if you could rate, review, and subscribe on iTunes as well. THANK YOU!

And thank you, as always, for being here. Your encouragement and support of Girlfriends means so much and I am so grateful for your presence here. God bless your week!

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Resources for Young Widows
(recommended by reader Beth Anne)
Center for Loss bookstore
Grief Resources

Some Places I Will Be!
February 25-26: LA Religious Education Congress
February 27: Catholic Women of Buffalo
March 5: Together in Holiness (Orlando)

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