#HEYGRRRLFRENNNS I hope y’all had a beautiful Thanksgiving, because this grrrl is feeling so full of love and gratitude after spending quality time with my family. There’s something about the holidays that always brings things into perspective—reminding me of what truly matters, even when life feels overwhelming. And okay, confession time: I am 100% one of those grrrls who starts playing holiday music the second November hits. (Mariah Carey has entered the chat, and I regret NOTHING.) Literally such a sleigh!! But with all the coziness and joy of the season, I’d be lying if I didn’t admit there’s a little stress creeping in too. Anyone else feel like the end of the year comes with a side of existential dread? Here’s the thing: I’m really proud of what I’ve accomplished this year, but that doesn’t stop me from overthinking what didn’t go as planned. This time of year has a way of making me replay all my unfulfilled goals, and trust me, that highlight reel is NOT fun. But then, I stop and think about the surprises—the wins that weren’t even on my radar—and I realize there’s a lot to celebrate too. Like, who knew I’d end up doing some things that weren’t even on my 2024 bingo card?! It’s a reminder to focus on the positives and not let the “what-ifs” steal my joy.

As we head into the rest of the holiday season, it’s easy to feel like the pressure is on—pressure to be productive, cheerful, and somehow have it all together. But let’s keep it real: this time of year can be a lot. Between the colder days, darker nights, and the weight of reflection, it’s no surprise that seasonal depression tends to creep in. And if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably caught yourself spiraling in “am I doing enough?” mode at least once (okay, maybe a hundred times). But here’s what I’ve learned: you can honor those feelings and choose not to let them run the show. So today, I want to share some ways to navigate the heaviness of the season, take care of your mental health, and maybe even find a little joy in the process. Because guess what? You’re not alone, and you don’t have to do this perfectly, the most important part is that you are continuing to show up for yourself.

Let There Be Light

Alright, grrrlfren, let’s talk about the serious lack of sunlight these days because, honestly, it’s giving Twilight and I didn’t sign up for that. Shorter days and darker mornings can throw your energy all the way off, leaving you feeling drained, and let’s not even get started on how much harder it feels to roll out of bed when it’s still pitch black outside. It’s not just you, seasonal depression thrives in this kind of environment, but we’re not letting it win. One of the easiest ways to fight back? Sunlight, garlic, and a rosary… oh wait that’s for vampires. And F-Boys! Luckily for us we only need more sunlight! Did y’all know that It’s estimated that about 1 billion people globally have low vitamin D levels, and that symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency can show up as fatigue, muscle weakness, mood changes, and even depression? Vitamin D is primarily synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight. So, If you can, carve out a little time each day to step outside and soak up some natural light. Even 10 minutes of fresh air and sunshine can work wonders for your mood. And if you’re thinking, “Amber, that’s cute, but I don’t have time for any of this,” I hear you grrrl! But let’s reframe it: you don’t have to overhaul your whole day, just sprinkle in small moments of light where you can. If you’re allergic to going outside like I am, instead of scrolling your phone in the darkness of your room, try sitting by the window to catch some rays. These tiny shifts might seem insignificant, but they add up, and your brain will thank you for the effort!

Move It Or Lose It

You knew this one was coming, right? Grrrl, we have to talk about movement. And before you roll your eyes and think I’m about to tell you to train for a marathon or hit the gym five days a week—ABSOLUTELY NOT, you know me better than that! This isn’t about turning into a fitness guru overnight; it’s about finding ways to get your body moving in ways that feel good for you. Why? Because movement is one of the easiest ways to shake off that seasonal funk and boost those happy hormones like serotonin, and dopamine! The trick is to keep it fun and pressure-free. Me and my sister Ashley just started a Hot Grrrl Walking Club™, where we move our bodies for 40 minutes a day… that’s it, oh and of course look and feel hot while we do it! If you’ve got it flaunt it! There are no expectations other than a positive attitude, it’s amazing and 40 minutes flies by when you’re having fun with your friend! I have been getting really creative with my 40 minutes too, sometimes we chit chat… well I talk her ear off, sometimes I listen to my Baddie Baddie playlist, and recently I started rewatching old episodes of The Real Housewives of Atlanta because a brain distracted by Bravo is a brain that can’t complain that I tricked it to exercise. Not feeling the idea of a structured workout? That’s cool. Instead, try dancing around your room like it’s 2004 and you’re auditioning for the Crazy in Love music video. Trust me, you’ll feel better in minutes!! Or, if you’re more of a “chill and stretch” kind of grrrl, roll out a yoga mat and follow a free yoga flow on YouTube. Bonus points if you romanticize your workout with sage and a candle, Namaste bad vibes!

Clear Your Calendar

Unpopular opinion: the holiday season comes with a lot of invites… too many invites? Like I appreciate being included in all of cheeriness and merriness, but between travel plans, gift swaps, and planning the perfect holiday party outfits, all of this fanfare can start to feel like a list of obligations and if you add one more thing to the list I may toss Santa’s cookies! Ginger SNAP! In past years, this influx of holiday hooplah would’ve drained me AND my bank account but this year I had a radical epiphany that changed the entire game. Just because you’re invited doesn’t mean you have to show up! Can everyone hear the angels singing right now or is just me? Okay but forreal, protecting your peace is a full-time job, and it starts with learning how to say no without guilt. If the thought of an event makes you sigh louder than a broken heater, take that as your cue to politely decline. Instead, use that time for something that truly fills your cup, whether it’s bingeing your favorite holiday movies (This Christmas, anyone?), baking cookies that you don’t plan to share, or just chilling in fuzzy socks with zero expectations. Also, saying no to someone else’s plans doesn’t mean you’re doomed to a lifetime of eternal boredom! Take time to honor your traditions. Sometimes, the best memories are the ones you create on your own terms. Make sure you’re prioritizing the things that matter most to you, not just the things other people expect of you. At the end of the day, the holiday season is meant to be enjoyed, not endured.

Navigating seasonal depression is no small feat, but you’re stronger than you think and also to be completely transparent this will not be cured in a day. This season might feel heavy, but remember, it’s also an opportunity to reconnect with yourself and show up for you. Give yourself permission to rest, to feel, and to do what you need to protect your peace. I just want to remind you that this time of year can be tough, but you’re not alone in feeling that way. Seasonal depression is real, and it’s okay to acknowledge that some days might feel heavier than others. Be gentle with yourself! What matters most is how you show up for yourself, even in small ways. It’s okay if joy feels a little different right now, or if it comes in quieter ways, like a good meal, a kind word from a friend, or even a deep breath that reminds you you’re still here. That’s enough. Take things one day at a time, lean into what feels good, and let yourself rest when you need it. You’ve got this, and although your radical self-care journey is personal and unique to you, you’re never alone. You’ve got me and this beautiful community of grrrlfrens helping you along the way! Now go and be great, you lil grrrly pop! TTYL!