by Trenna Sue Hiler

Created on: January 03, 2009   Last Updated: January 19, 2009

The decorations are back in storage. The holiday music is put away. The extra family has gone home. Work is back on schedule. There is a giant sigh of relief and then come the tears. It's over. All the parties, gifts, good will and bustle is gone. There is a sense of loss. It's a normal reaction. How that reaction is handled is what separates those who step up and do something about it and those who wallow in it. This year let's step up and see what happens.

Make a list of all your friends and family and put their names on the calendar for a call, an email or a card. It only takes a few moments to write a little note or make a call and you will be surprised how quickly friends and family will be responding. Every other day is a good place to start. Chances are they will be thrilled to know that someone is thinking of them as well. Doing something kind brings great results.

Make sure your life is filled with music. Don't be afraid to venture out a little and listen to some different kinds of music. If classical is your thing, add a little bluegrass might be something to try out. Music has been used as therapy for years. There is science behind adding a good deal of music to your day. Upbeat and loud can sometimes be wonderful.

When the sun shines get outside. For some places in the world winter is a cold dark time and the body doesn't respond well to no sun shine. Make an effort to get out at least 30 minutes a day if there is sun shine at all.

Enroll in a continuing education class. Keep the mind active and engaged keeps our spirits up and we are learning. Step right out of that comfort zone and learn something new.

Take a second job. Every one could use more money. Since it's been go, go,go keep the energy alive by taking a second job. It could be helpful with holiday bills and it will certainly keep things busy. You meet new people and the blues become green hard cash.

Dr. David Lewis, neuropsychologist and founder of The Mind Lab, reports that just listening to the sounds of the sea cause the brain wave pattern to alter. He compares it to meditation. So if there is no ocean close by get the CD of ocean waves and see what happens.

Use the feelings to springboard and search for the meaning in personal life. What is your calling? Are you happy with the choices you've made? Are there new choices that can take you to greater places? Since the blues have already set in it seems like a perfect time to make changes.

The biggest step may be the first one. So hop out of that bed or get off of that couch and do something. The truth is that anything is better than nothing. Get your body moving and let the endorphins do the trick.

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