Chaplain's Corner

Seasons 

There might be only four seasons each year in terms of the weather, (sometimes we witness them all in one day here in Melbourne) however there are several different seasons that we travel through in life. Learning how to navigate these seasons, and how to care for ourselves along the way, is so important.  

Did you know? 

• Our moods can be affected by the weather. When exposed to less sunlight, your body produces more melatonin, the hormone which makes you feel sleepy. And just as your body begins craving mid-day naps, your brain begins producing lower levels of serotonin — the neurotransmitter that affects our mood. 
• Cold temperatures reduce sensory feedback, dexterity, muscle strength, blood flow, and balance, which can impact your performance of complex physical tasks. Does that initial morning chill ever leave you feeling completely unmotivated? 
• Wintery days and rain often leave people feeling like they want to bunker down and hibernate, isolating themselves from community. 
• Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression which is seasonally linked. Nearly 3 million Australians live with depression or anxiety. Only 35 percent of those people will access treatment.
   

The importance of self-care: There are a number of different things that you can do to look after yourself.  

1. Listen to yourself. We often know what we need, but do not always allow ourselves time to do it. Pay attention to the physical signs that you get from your body. If your body is telling you to rest, then rest. If you have been giving so much to others, it might be time to do something for yourself. 
2. Prioritize. No one can do it all and trying is just going to land you in a world of distress and disappointment.  Take time to prioritize your day and be ready to let go of much of your to do list.  Focus on what’s most important to you and accept that you can’t do everything. 
3. Go for a walk. Researchers found that people who spent at least 30 minutes outside during periods of pleasant weather reported improved mood, memory, and openness to new information and creative thoughts. Even if it's cold outside, if you see the sun shining make it a point to get up from your desk and take a brisk 30-minute walk during your lunch break — you'll find that your afternoons will become increasingly more productive. 

It is ok to ask for help: There are things that we can do for our self, and then there are times when we need to remember that it is ok to ask for help. If you’re feeling overwhelmed don’t be afraid to ask others for help.  Allowing another to help you not only takes some of the burden off of you, it can also give them an opportunity to express their goodwill towards you and feel valued in the process. When we care for others, and allow them to care for us, it strengthens our relationships, and we don't feel as isolated. Human beings are actually wired for connection!

There are also organisations such as Beyond Blue – Call 1300 22 4636 or jump on their website www.beyondblue.org.au  or Lifeline – Call 13 11 14 or their website www.lifeline.org.au  

“Affirmations are our mental vitamins, providing the supplementary positive thoughts we need to balance the barrage of negative events and thoughts we experience daily.”― Tia Walker 

Carly Cassidy  

0438 319 064  

carly.cassidy@education.vic.gov.au 

Pastoral Care for the BPS Community.