Winter is a time of festive holidays, beautiful snowscapes, and, for some, seasonal affective disorder (SAD). A simple activity, birdwatching, can help dash seasonal depression and serve as a natural remedy for the blues. While clinical depression is a more serious issue and requires intervention, a bout with seasonal depression is common. It can happen to anyone during months when less sunlight is available. The good news? Birdwatching can help! It is a simple and enjoyable activity.
Birdwatching, “birding,” falls under the category of nature therapy. But let’s face it, there was a time when getting outside was far more common and therapy was less. Birding has always been an enjoyable pastime that is free, accessible to most people (even in the city), and requires little effort.
If you haven’t had luck beating the winter blues, give birdwatching a try. It is certain to help the doldrums of winter take flight. Cheer up with our feathered friends!
Bird Watching Gets You Outside
Combating SAD is hard to do when you’re indoors all the time. But winter, cold and snow, often keep people hibernating at home. What makes matters worse is the lack of light. Where I live, it gets dark out before suppertime.
Spending time outside and being exposed to natural light is a great way to ward off a blue mood. Cold weather and fresh air help too. They have the power to boost serotonin.
You Will Be Present
Engaging in nature makes it more difficult to ruminate on the past or worry about the future. It is a mindfulness trick that helps keep you in the present moment. Spotting and identifying birds is a distraction for the mind. Outside, watching bird activity results in less stress, creating a calmer state of being.
Birding Connects You with Nature
Connecting with nature is always a good thing, no matter what the outdoor activity. Birds can be a great way to engage in the natural world, inspiring wonder and joy. They really are fun to watch! When I am birdwatching, I feel a sense of being part of something miraculous. Birds are resilient and energetic. I want more of that!
You Might Learn Something New
At one time in my life, I could identify very few birds. Since I’ve spent time watching them and learning how to identify them, I know many by sight or sound. A bird book and a pair of binoculars are great birding tools. In today’s tech-driven world, there are also many apps for identifying birds. I’ve used the Merlin Bird ID App. It’s free, easy, and fun to use.
Bird Watching Will Color Your World
The first winter bird that comes to mind when I think of color is the cardinal. The males are fiery red and stunning. But I think I like the female cardinal more. They are smart little birds with a splash of red on their wings, tail, and crest. To make them even more attractive, they have red beaks. Like wearing classic red lipstick, they are brave and unashamed of their beauty.
Winter birdwatching can do more than dash seasonal depression. It can become an enjoyable hobby and another tool for fostering mental wellness. When you marvel at the brilliance and energy of birds, the blues might just grow wings and fly away. Birds. Nature. Change your winter landscape!
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