By Sarah Paton, ND
Dr. Sarah Paton, NDAs winter settles in, I’m reminded how the season itself invites us to slow down and restore—even as the world around us feels urgent and, at times, overwhelming. For those of us engaged in activism and advocacy, especially within groups like Indivisible, it’s easy to feel the weight of the current political landscape pressing in from all sides.
I want to offer you a gentle nudge: rest is not a luxury, it’s a necessity—and, in these times, a radical act of resistance.
Reflections on Information Overload
We live in an era of relentless news cycles and social media feeds that can quickly turn into doomscrolling spirals. While staying informed is vital—sometimes even inspiring us to take meaningful action—there’s a tipping point where too much information becomes toxic to our bodies, minds, and spirits.
This winter, I invite you to find your own healthy “dose” of news. Notice how you feel after a few minutes of reading versus an hour. Experiment with setting gentle boundaries: perhaps checking updates just once or twice a day, and turning off notifications in the evening. Over time, this small shift can help you stay engaged without burning out.
Practical Rituals for Winter Resilience
- Sunlight is essential—literally and figuratively. Try to get outside as early as you can each day, without sunglasses, even if only for a few minutes. If you live in Oregon–or anywhere with long, gray winters–you’re likely low on vitamin D. Consider talking to your provider about testing, and ask if a short-term supplement (like 10,000 IU daily for 2 months) might be right for you. (Nothing here is medical advice—always check with your own provider.)
- Consider a sun lamp if you’re prone to seasonal depression. Look for a lamp with at least 10,000 lux, and use it for 20–30 minutes in the morning. Keep it simple—place it at eye level while you read, journal, or enjoy breakfast.
- Find your joy—daily. In dark times, seeking out joy is a radical act. Savor a favorite piece of music, a walk with a friend, time reading for pleasure, a bold splash of color, or a meal that makes you smile. These moments are not frivolous—they’re fuel for the long journey toward justice and change.
A Gentle Nudge for Sustainable Engagement
Every act of kindness, gentleness, and care you give yourself is an investment in your ability to keep showing up for the causes that matter most. Your well-being is not separate from your activism—it’s the foundation that allows you to stay strong and steady for the long run.
Stay strong, stay well, and remember: joy is a powerful act of resistance. I’m grateful for all that you do—and for the ways you care for yourself along the way.
Dr. Sarah Paton, a licensed naturopathic physician, specializes in natural, integrative medicine at drsarahpaton.com.
Disclaimer: Self Care posts are shared for information purposes only, and are never intended as individual medical advice nor as a substitute for healthcare services.