Thanksgiving is a holiday of joy and gratitude. While we look forward to celebrating, many people with food and body image concerns may become increasingly anxious. Fears of being judged for their appearance, including their COVID weight gain, can incite dread instead of excitement about getting together with people they have not seen in a long time. Media images of happy people enjoying a Thanksgiving meal together add to the pressure.
Rather than risking the stress associated with social gatherings, many single people with food issues isolate themselves during these times. Many intelligent and attractive single people stay home alone on Thanksgiving bingingwhile watching Netflix.
Exacerbating the social pressures of the holidays is the steadily decreasing amount of sunshine as the days get shorter. It is not coincidental that people are most depressed in late January, which is the darkest time of the year.
Recognizing the connection between darkness and depression is key for people trying to get through the holidays without falling into emotional eating. Many of my clients have gotten a boost by using “SADD” lamps such as those produced by a company like Northern Light Technologies (https://northernlighttechnologies.com). You may be surprised to discover that this lighting comes in many creative forms, including standing and desk lamps, prisms, and even an alarm clock that simulates the dawning of summer light.
It is often useful to light up the space where you spend the most time. You can purchase oversized light bulbs to illuminate a work area, kitchen, or den. Lighter colors throughout your home and office can help brighten your mood. A bouquet of white or yellow flowers can add cheer to a dark winter day.
When planning your winter vacation, a sunny region lower in the hemisphere can feel like an antidepressant. Spending time in a sunny area around the middle to end of January can be a powerful tool for overcoming the mid-winter blues. Many people also choose to vacation in tropical areas in late February or early March and come back when spring is around the corner.