WHERE to get JOY IN THE GREY, flat DARKNESS OF WINTER?

Where to get joy in the gray, flat darkness of winter?
As a therapist, I have often hear that many people carry an invisible burden in the darkness of winter and joy seems to be lost. It does not always feel like sadness or exhaustion – sometimes it is just a constant flatness, a feeling that nothing is really touching. It confuses some and others begin to wonder if there is something wrong with them or if they have started to get depressed.

However, it does not have to be depression. Of course, darkness can also contribute to that. However, feeling flat can be your body and mind’s way of telling you that you have distanced yourself from your own needs and deeper connection to yourself.

You may wonder if I have overlooked something in myself lately? Maybe you have forgotten to rejoice, or perhaps you long for the promise that all your feelings are allowed.

Often this small question; ”What do I need?” can open the door to a deeper understanding of your own being.

Another source of meaning and joy is giving. Read more about what I mean below!

Giving can be a small word, gesture or action, but its impact can be far-reaching.

THE JOY OF GIVING IS A TRUE SOURCE OF POWER

What is the joy of giving? It is not just about giving gifts or grand gestures – but something much deeper and more meaningful. It is the feeling that arises when we give a part of ourselves: our time, our attention, our skills or our support to another. It is a small but powerful spark that warms the giver and the receiver alike.

We often think that giving is a sacrifice. But what if giving is actually one of the greatest sources of power in life? When we give genuinely and from the heart, we also get something back – a sense of connection, meaning, joy and the fullness of life.

WHY JOY IN GIVING?

The joy of giving comes from many sources. It can be a tangible feeling of well-being that our brain’s “happiness chemicals” – dopamine and oxytocin – release when we do good. But it is also deeper: a sense of being part of something bigger.

When we give, we remember that life is about more than just ourselves, our goals, and the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Giving helps us to detach ourselves from our own worries for a moment and put them in a broader perspective. Suddenly, what seemed like a huge burden a moment ago may become lighter when we realize that we can positively impact the lives of others. Our gaze shifts from our own center to the wider world.

GIVING OPENS DOORS TO THE INNER WORLD

Ask yourself: When was the last time I gave something of myself, without expecting anything in return? Maybe it was a small gesture, a kind word to a stranger, or a moment when you gave your time and presence to someone who really needed it. Do you remember how it felt?

Giving is a gateway to deeper meaning and brings joy that is independent of external circumstances. You can give even if you don’t have much.

DIFFERENT FORMS OF GIVING

Giving does not always mean concrete actions. It can also be emotional giving: compassion, listening, and understanding others. When we dare to be authentic and share our experiences, we often find that we gain something equally valuable in return – connection. Giving can also include:

Time: Time is one of the most valuable things we can give. Being present and listening can mean more to someone than we can imagine.
Expertise: When we share our expertise and experiences, we help others grow and at the same time grow ourselves.
Inspiration and Encouragement: A small word of encouragement can open the door for someone who is unsure at just the right moment.
Love and Compassion: Giving can be as simple as looking at someone gently and saying, “I see you.”

WHEN THE JOY OF GIVING IS TRULY REWARDING

There is one important principle associated with the joy of giving: it cannot be forced or performed. If we give only out of obligation or to gain approval, giving becomes a burden. Genuine giving comes from freedom. It happens when we feel within ourselves the desire to do good. When giving is genuine, it does not take energy – it gives it. It fills us with gratitude that we have something to share.

Giving is therefore not only a gift to others, but also a gift to yourself. It reminds you of your own resources and that there is beauty in life that is revealed when we dare to share it with others. Giving can be a small word, gesture or action, but its impact can be far-reaching.

When you give, you are not only helping someone else – you are also strengthening your own connection to the world and to yourself.

Try this today:

Ask yourself, ‘What could I give to someone else today?’ Give it – and see what happens.

Notice how people react to what you give them. Not as if you are begging for thanks when you give, but the slightest flickers on their faces or the tone and volume of their voice. You can see the true gratitude in them!

When you give, you are not only helping someone else – you are also strengthening your own connection to the world and to yourself.