Managing the Changing Seasons as an HSP
Ivy Griffin
People who are highly sensitive or attuned to their environment can experience changes in weather, light, and energy very intensely. In the past few months, the days have gotten shorter, colder, and we may have even noticed a general shift in energy all around us. This can be a welcome change for some and more difficult for others, especially when the expectations we feel don’t match up with the energy we have to deal with them.
Shorter days and colder weather can make many of us feel as though we want to hibernate which is a perfectly natural reaction to the changing of the seasons. But because the culture in the US places a high value on productivity and consumerism, we may feel like we’re failing when we don’t have the energy to engage. It can be difficult to accept that just because we feel a demand for our energy doesn’t mean we’ll magically be able to manifest it.
So how do we deal with these continued demands on energy we just might not have? Taking steps to support our energy and our boundaries can be very impactful as can practicing self-compassion. Here are some ways to do this:
Recognize and respect your need for sleep. I can’t tell you how many times recently I’ve thought “I am ready for bed” only to look at the clock and see that it’s 6:30pm. Rather than fight this, go ahead and start winding down for the evening. This might be an opportunity to catch up on some reading you’ve been wanting to do or some journaling or meditation.
Listen to your body. We’ve also entered cold and flu season! If you are tired or worn out, your body might be trying to tell you something. Ask yourself “What do I need?” If you have a hard time identifying your needs, think of what you might offer to a loved one who was ill.
Give yourself permission to nest! Yes, I said “nest”. Whether this means sprucing up your space, engaging in quiet, relaxing indoor activities, cooking or baking, go ahead and give yourself permission to do these things! This is the perfect time of year to enjoy these types of activities!
Cultivating self-compassion is a lifelong endeavor but a worthwhile one. By meeting ourselves with a friendly and accepting attitude, we are better able to navigate the changing of the seasons and of life. There’s never a bad time to practice self-compassion and recognizing when it’s needed most is part of that. Embrace your sensitivity and use it to notice what you need this time of year. As always, if you need support, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Warmly,
Ileana Arganda-Stevens, LMFT #129032
Clinical Lead
Thrive Therapy & Counseling
1614 X St., Suite A
Sacramento, CA 95818
916-287-3430