When the trees grow bare as the year nears to an end, our spirits may feel as if they are moving towards a similar state. The amount of sunlight in a day decreases as well as the temperature. 'Winter' often symbolizes a time of pain, loneliness and despair in literature, and can be interpreted to seem that way in our minds as well.

As college students, we are cramming a semester's worth of notes and information into our brains within a week (or a day).

As workers, we are stressed about the 'holiday season' and the business it may bring about. We wonder if we'll have time off to see our friends and families.

As friends and family, we are worried about finances and the costs the 'holiday season' may bring.

As people, we may be reflecting on the year that's passed us (in what seems 'the blink of an eye') and wonder what the new year will bring.

Throughout this time, I know my personal anxiety levels have a heightened potential to skyrocket, and I find myself in constant deep thought.

Of course, this can happen to anyone at any time of the year. But since it is the beginning of December and I have been finding myself under the covers, smothered by loneliness and curiosity, lately, I want to relate these emotions to the current season.

It's often a struggle to crawl out of bed and my creativity is lacking. I feel drained from everyday activities and may disassociate myself from others as a result. I feel 'offbeat,' even around the familiar tunes of friends, and or family. My mind speaks in a way that's difficult to regurgitate to others in hopes for advice or comfort.

When this description relates to the way I'm feeling day in and day out, I know that my attitude and mindset may ache for positive attention and care.

I have to remind myself that "it's okay to not be okay." To ignore these overwhelming notions coming from within seems nearly impossible in the moment of attempting to cope with them.

Here, I ask myself: what is it that I am feeling? Why?

I have to accept the moment but keep in mind that it will pass. And there are things I can do to take advantage of the moment, by using it to improve my coping skills and develop a stronger sense of self.

In order to do this, I have to be okay with taking some time to myself. This may include writing down my thoughts, or simply just being alone for a period of time. This allows me to be open and honest with myself. I don't have to worry about judgment from others or feel the need to force myself to act a certain way. I can just be.

I often have to encourage myself to do the opposite of what I only feel like doing. If I just want to lay in bed all day, I might still take a few extra minutes to lay still, but I get myself moving because it typically does make me feel better.

Although this time of the year may put you a little "under the weather" doesn't mean you have to allow it to let it affect you negatively. Use this time to be kind to yourself and your thoughts may improve. A quote from Buddha states, "if your compassion does not include yourself, it is incomplete." It may be hard to be compassionate in the way you would like to be towards others when you are not compassionate toward yourself first.

Throughout the next few months, join me in an attempt to search for growth, hope, and compassion within ourselves. Even if it's cold and dark outside, you may find a little warmth and light in the shadows of your mind.