It’s that time of year! The cold weather, the snow, the inability to go outside to walk the dog or enjoy nature, the darkness that prevails morning and night, tax season, the election; it seems everything contributes to an ongoing sense of gloom and doom.

While it's common to feel temporarily "blue," it’s important to recognize when those feelings escalate into Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or clinical depression. For many, the winter months can be particularly challenging for mental health. Although we often hear the term "SAD," what are the actual diagnostic symptoms, and what effective remedies exist for managing this malady?

Today’s episode will take a deep dive into the mental health diagnosis of Seasonal Affective Disorder and explore the strategies that can help manage this condition. Our goal is to provide information that benefits not only those experiencing SAD, but also their friends and family who wish to offer support.

Show Notes:

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/seasonal-affective-disorder.

https://www.psychiatry.org/Patients-Families/Seasonal-Affective-Disorder.

Https://Palousemindfulness.com.

Where would we be without our girlfriends? These extraordinary women bring light and love into our lives. They support us unconditionally and stand by us during difficult times. Indeed, they are among life’s greatest gifts.

Female friendships are invaluable blessings. However, did you know that our girlfriends also provide psychological and emotional benefits? Join us for this conversation as we unpack how our girlfriend's presence in our lives enhances our health and longevity. Additionally, we find that there are both social and professional advantages to these friendships. It is no exaggeration to say that our girlfriends are a vital lifeline for maximizing our well-being in every aspect of life.

Show Notes:
Resources:
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-health-benefits-of-strong-relationships

https://facts.net/society-and-social-sciences/40-facts-about-the-importance-of-female-friendships

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/happiness-is-state-mind/201808/the-importance-female-friendships-among-women

Aging gracefully is an art- as our emotional, physical, and nutritional needs change significantly.

Social media tells us we need products and procedures to remain vibrant and youthful. Today's guest, Ruthie Massman, is a fitness trainer and wellness coach who takes a more holistic approach, “I think it’s worth reframing how we think about aging. Aging doesn’t mean you’re losing your power – it means you’re gaining a chance to own it in a new way.”

Hormonal shifts, metabolism changes, and weight redistribution are challenges women typically experience over time. The diet and exercise we’ve followed for years no longer produce the same results, and the scale is no longer our friend. We may look in the mirror and wonder who is that person. The good news is there are things we can do to reclaim our bodies.

Join us as Ruthie discusses the nutritional essentials of protein, collagen, and creatine. Did you know the recommended daily protein intake is 1g per 1lb of ideal body weight? Who knew cottage cheese was the new superfood? She also discusses the role of resistance training in preserving muscle mass, improving bone density, and maintaining functional strength. Her holistic approach to aging, including journaling and meditation, reminds us of our ability to maximize our wellness potential, mind, body, and soul. Who couldn’t use a little more of that?

Special Guest: Ruthie Massman, a 20-year fitness coach who has developed an app that helps women reframe aging, exercise, and diet. Follow her on Instagram @RuthieMassman.