A snowflake is a single ice crystal that has achieved a sufficient size, and may have amalgamated with others, then falls through the Earth's atmosphere as snow. Each flake nucleates around a dust particle in supersaturated air masses by attracting supercooled cloud water droplets, which freeze and accrete in crystal form. Snow appears white in color despite being made of clear ice. This is due to diffuse reflection of the whole spectrum of light by the small crystal facets of the snowflakes.
Where I live, it is snowing, and snowing, and snowing! Fluffy snowflakes cascading downward to find a place and give nutrient to our farmlands. I love the snow and it does not bother me to be out in it. I know that it bothers some people. Did you know that there is such a things as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and it is estimated to affect more than a half of million people every winter. The symptoms of such disorder include depression, anxiety, lethargy, social withdrawal, overeating, oversleeping, weight gain and difficulty concentrating. It is said that all of us may experience one or more of these symptoms during our winter season.
As in all things and with what I have experienced, it is important to practice self care and mental health awareness all year round. Perhaps it would be a good idea to keep track of our moods and behavior in winter to help combat any of the symptoms that may be related to SAD. There is something to be said about finding a great purpose to our lives. Connecting ouselves to a greater power that we believe in is a great way to gain perspective and empathy for others. Become present in the moment and rather than focusing on selfish attitudes. I will begin college classes again on Monday and this will keep me busy while the snowflakes fall. My internet business has expanded. New adventures are in the making. Winter’s reputation for hibernation is also punctuated with bursts of energy. The energy that burns bright in this sleepy season gives it that joy. Winter is as much about lounging in PJs and sipping tea as it is about racing down a mountain on skis or a sled. Winter is lovely but for those who have the opportunity, it can also be loads of fun.
“Always maintain a kind of summer, even in the middle of winter,” advised Henry David Thoreau.
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