As the days grow shorter and colder, many people experience heightened feelings of depression and isolation. A recent survey conducted by Jaya Jaya Myra, bestselling author and thought leader in mind-body wellness and mindfulness, sheds light on the scope of this issue. Among 1,000 respondents across the United States, 30.5% identified depression as a significant life challenge they currently face.
The colder months often amplify feelings of loneliness, with limited daylight and social activities contributing to a sense of detachment. Experts like Jaya Jaya Myra suggest that mindfulness and meditation can serve as powerful tools to address these struggles, offering a path toward greater emotional resilience and balance.
“Cultivating a daily mindfulness or meditation practice is a powerful way of taking care of your mental and emotional health. I consider it mental hygiene,” says Jaya Jaya Myra. “Just like you brush your teeth and shower every day, mindfulness helps keep the mind positive and stable.”
The Rising Need for Mental Health Support
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression triggered by seasonal changes, affects millions of people every year. For many, symptoms of fatigue, sadness, and social withdrawal intensify during the fall and winter. Jaya Jaya Myra’s survey aligns with these findings, highlighting how common depression is as a significant life problem for Americans.
To combat these challenges, she emphasizes the value of mindfulness and meditation, both as individual practices and in group settings. These practices not only help manage stress but also foster a sense of community and support, which is often lacking during the colder months.
Mindfulness as Self-Care
One of Jaya Jaya Myra’s core messages is the importance of integrating mindfulness into daily routines. For those who feel intimidated by meditation or believe they can’t meditate, she offers simple, practical tips to make mindfulness more approachable.
“Mindfulness doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming,” she explains. “Even small daily habits, like focusing on your breath for a few minutes or practicing gratitude, can shift your emotional landscape and help you feel more grounded.”
Her advice encourages individuals to view mindfulness as an essential component of self-care, akin to physical exercise or proper nutrition. By cultivating small, consistent habits, individuals can create a foundation for improved mental well-being.
Individual vs. Group Meditation
While individual meditation allows for introspection and personal growth, group meditation provides a unique opportunity for connection and shared energy. Jaya Jaya Myra notes that both approaches have their benefits, and choosing the right one depends on personal preferences and needs.
“Practicing meditation in a group setting can reduce feelings of isolation by creating a sense of community, while also providing a supportive energy for those just getting started with their practice,” she says. “On the other hand, solo meditation helps you develop a deeper relationship with yourself.”
For those struggling with loneliness, group sessions can be especially impactful. Whether joining a local meditation group or participating in virtual classes, these shared experiences foster a sense of belonging, even during the most isolating seasons.
Practical Tips for Seasonal Mindfulness
To help people combat seasonal depression and isolation, Jaya Jaya Myra offers several actionable tips for starting a mindfulness routine:
- Start small: Begin with just a few minutes of focused breathing or mindfulness exercises each day.
- Create daily rituals: Establish simple, mindful practices, such as journaling, drinking tea slowly, or taking a daily walk, to anchor your day.
- Use guided meditations: Apps and online resources can provide structure and support for beginners.
- Connect with others: Join a mindfulness group or attend a meditation class to build connections and stay motivated.
- Be consistent: Regularity is key to making mindfulness a habit that supports long-term emotional health.
About Jaya Jaya Myra
Jaya Jaya Myra is a globally recognized thought leader in spirituality, consciousness and mind body wellness. She’s a best-selling author of two books, “Vibrational Healing” and “The Soul of Purpose”. She is also a TEDx and motivational speaker, as well as the creator of The WELL Method for purpose-filled, healthy living.
Myra’s 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Gita for the Masses, is focused on teaching conscious character development, helping people overcome obstacles and be victorious in life to become the best versions of themselves.
