Elevate Your Mood: Wellness Strategies for Grand Junction Winters
As Americans, we are facing a variety of challenges—from economic uncertainties to shifting social dynamics. As always, we have our own personal difficulties to add to those larger scale issues. Personally, I know that it is important to keep a close eye on my mood once winter sets in here in the Grand Valley. I am particularly sensitive to the seasons and winter can bring some significant blues if I am not careful.
Here in Grand Junction, we also have a unique seasonal representation of life's challenges: the winter inversion. An inversion occurs when a layer of warm air traps cold air beneath it, creating a lid over the valley. This phenomenon can lead to stretches of low clouds, less sunlight, and stagnant air, trapping pollutants close to the ground. The gray skies and poor air quality can have an impact on mental and physical well-being, sometimes without us even noticing.
Like the layers of air that settle over our valley during an inversion, life’s difficulties can sometimes feel heavy and overwhelming. Yet, just as the sun will eventually break through the clouds, there are ways to help us avoid getting stuck in the gloom, at least for too long. It is just as important to give ourselves grace when we do feel negative emotions. They are part of life too.
In this article, we’ll explore how understanding our local environment, listening to our bodies and minds, and taking small, meaningful steps can help us build resilience—whether we’re facing the change in weather or life’s uncertainties.
The Mental Health Impact of Inversions
For some, inversions can worsen symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD)—a type of depression linked to reduced sunlight exposure. The lack of sunlight can disrupt your internal clock and decrease serotonin levels, key for mood regulation. Lengthy periods of gloomy weather can bring on feelings of fatigue, irritability, and sadness.
The air pollution trapped by inversions can affect respiratory health. But studies suggest that poor air quality may contribute to heightened stress and anxiety too. There are a few things we can do to help mitigate some of this. Below are some tips for coping with inversions:
- Maximize Sunlight Exposure
When an inversion sets in, it’s tempting to stay indoors. However, stepping outside during peak daylight hours or heading to higher elevations where sunlight is more plentiful can significantly improve mood and energy levels. - Stay Physically Active
Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood elevators. Indoor activities such as yoga, swimming, or joining a fitness class can help counteract the effects of reduced sunlight. - Consider Light Therapy
Light therapy boxes mimic natural sunlight and can be particularly effective for alleviating symptoms of SAD. Investing in one and using it for 20–30 minutes daily during the darker months can make a noticeable difference. - Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management
Techniques like meditation, journaling, or even talking to a therapist can help process negative emotions and manage the psychological effects of inversions. - Pay Attention to Indoor Air Quality
Use air purifiers or houseplants to improve the quality of indoor air, especially during prolonged inversions when outdoor air pollution may worsen symptoms of fatigue or stress. - Build Community Connections
Social support is crucial for mental health. Consider joining local clubs, attending community events, or hosting small gatherings to stay connected during the winter months.
High-Elevation Activities to Beat the Blues Optional to include.
When the valley is covered in clouds, heading to higher elevations can provide sunshine, fresh air, and a mental boost. Here are some local options:
- Powderhorn Mountain Resort
Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or even a sunny stroll around the lodge while soaking up spectacular views above the inversion layer. - Grand Mesa Nordic Trails
Try cross-country skiing or snowshoeing on the Grand Mesa’s groomed trails. The higher elevation often offers clear skies and serene landscapes. - Hiking at Colorado National Monument
Many trails at higher elevations, like Liberty Cap or Upper Monument Canyon, rise above the inversion layer and offer warm sunlight and expansive views. - Snowmobiling Adventures
Rent a snowmobile and explore the backcountry around Grand Mesa or Plateau Valley, where the inversion fog can feel like a distant memory. - Relax at Mesa Lakes Lodge
Warm up by the fire with a hot drink after exploring the sunny surroundings, whether through sledding, snowshoeing, or simply walking by the frozen lakes. - Visit the San Juan Mountains
A short trip to places like Ouray or Telluride can provide a higher altitude escape with stunning views and seasonal activities like ice climbing or natural hot springs.
We Can Find Bright Spots in the Gray
Inversions are a reminder of how unique Grand Junction is and by taking steps to address our mental health during these periods, we can hit spring not only surviving but thriving.
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Learn about ways to get help and find a health care provider or access treatment.
If you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of suicide, call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org . In life-threatening situations, call 911.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has an online treatment locator to help you find mental health services in your area.
Sidebar: Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
- Low Energy and Fatigue
Persistent tiredness and difficulty getting out of bed despite adequate sleep. - Feelings of Sadness or Hopelessness
Increased tearfulness, irritability, or a sense of despair. - Loss of Interest in Activities
Reduced enjoyment in hobbies, social events, or daily routines. - Changes in Sleep Patterns
Sleeping more than usual (hypersomnia) or struggling with insomnia. - Increased Appetite or Weight Gain
Craving high-carb or comfort foods, leading to weight changes. - Difficulty Concentrating
Trouble focusing, making decisions, or completing tasks. - Social Withdrawal
Avoiding friends, family, or group activities. - Physical Symptoms
Headaches, muscle aches, or a sense of heaviness in the arms and legs.
If you notice these symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, consider speaking with a healthcare professional.