Spring is Almost Here

I can feel that spring is nearly here. We've had several days of sunny weather and slightly warmer temperatures. The days are starting to get noticably longer. My body is starting to morph into its summer self; I'm feeling better and happier.

I'm one of those people who suffer with Seasonal Affective Disorder, or at least I think I am. Ever since I moved to the Pacific Northwest, I've struggled with the winter. The very long spell of rainy, gray days where the sun rarely, if ever, peeks out can really take a toll on your energy levels and emotional health. I've been here for 15 years and have learned to live with it. Still, it is difficult to lead two separate, seasonal lives.

I have the winter self. This part of me lives during the long, gray season of late fall, winter, and early spring. While I no longer struggle with depression during the winters, my energy levels run very low. I feel like I've gone into hibernation.

I also have a summer self. Each year, I look forward to the re-emergence of this part of me. I feel great! I have boundless energy, limitless enthusiasm, and I feel good through and through. With high energy levels, my body feels ready to conquer anything. Mentally I feel on top of the world. In general, I just want to run out into the streets and shout out, "Welcome summer sun! I'm so glad you are here! Let's play!" It's like an annual rebirth and I feel like my re-entry into the world is just around the corner.

I love summer.