Dirt is Good for the Soul.

February in Western New York tends to be cold and dreary. The kind of weather that makes it difficult to find the motivation to go outside unless you absolutely have to leave the warmth of your home. Seasonal depression can affect everyone, and it hits some of us harder than others. It can creep up on us when we least expect… even if we do not typically experience seasonal mood changes. To put it simply, depression can affect us all.

Sunlight has been proven to help humans feel better. There’s something about going out on a warm summer day, and feeling the warmth of the sun’s rays on our skin that speaks to us in ways few other things do. It’s like a smile that comforts and warms us from within.

So when life gets you down, or it’s nearly March and it’s snowing yet again while you are still sore from shoveling the last few days in a row (maybe it’s just me, but I somehow believe I’m not alone here), and even when the sun comes out for a few moments, it’s still frigid outside. What can you do? Many people turn to exercise, spending time with friends, or chasing a few minutes of sunlight between meetings or other daily tasks, and these are all great things that can, and will often help. But what else can be done?

How about starting to plan for spring in a meaningful way? If you garden, February is the perfect time to start planning your garden. Order your seeds, organize what you want to grow and where, and maybe even start growing from seeds indoors. Don’t garden, but enjoy flowers? You too can plant some seeds inside in anticipation for spring and warmer weather! Don’t have anywhere to grow outdoors, consider an easy to care for houseplant. If you are up for more of a challenge consider a tropical bonsai tree or orchid. There’s something about getting your hands dirty while planting or caring for a plant that also warms the soul and often brings a smile to your face. Sometimes, it’s as simple as getting a little dirt under your fingernails, because dirt is good for the soul.