As the month of March begins, I feel a mixture of excitement for Spring (that should be around the corner) and disappointment at the 10 day forecast that calls for more of the same: clouds, rain, chilly temps.

But it’s the excitement that keeps me going.

I’m happy to report that all the precautions I took to depression-proof myself during this winter seem to be working.

First of all, I think just an awareness of seasonal depression is a huge step in not letting it happen.

Secondly, I really believe that a regular practice of and dedication to these things was key for me: yoga, meditation, my happy light, daily walks, letting tough workouts and strict “clean” meals take a back seat to enjoying life for a few months, strategic getaways to refuel, and an awareness of the present moment and those around me.

As we hit the halfway point in Lent, and the stores start to fill up with Easter candy, I’m continuing my intention of awareness and doing things for those who have less.

I’m also very conscious of living with less–making little sacrifices to remind myself that I don’t need so much.

I question my food purchases. Can I squeeze by on what I have instead of making an extra trip to the store (you know how much pleasure I get out of trip to the natural foods store)? Do I really need to order nutritional yeast so that it will arrive by tomorrow from Amazon?

I’ve found myself cutting back on the unnecessary indulgences, which frees up my mental space for more awareness. Funny how that works.

I want to make sure by the time Easter comes, I’m ready to celebrate Spring–full of awareness, mindfulness, and energy!