Vancouver-based Barb Desmarais, a Boomer herself, offers a series of engaging conversations with Boomers on a wide range of topics, from Health to Finance to fitness to Relationships and more.We first met Barb when we were guests on her podcast, and we made some repeat appearances as well. Check them out here, here and here . We’ll be bringing you many other podcasts from Barb, because they speak both informatively and entertainingly to so many of the issues of SuperAging.
While the holiday season is often marketed as the “most wonderful time of the year,” the reality for many is a mix of pressure, loneliness, and seasonal Depression. In this very special episode, Barb is joined by returning guest and Mental Health therapist Jackie Adams to explore why this season can be so difficult and how to navigate it with your mental health intact. Together, they unpack the differences between the common “winter blues” and clinically diagnosed Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), discussing the physiological impact that shorter days and darker evenings have on our well-being.
The conversation moves beyond the weather to address the heavy emotional weight of the holidays, offering advice for those coping with Family estrangement, navigating life after Divorce, or managing financial Stress during an expensive time of year. Jackie shares a wealth of practical strategies to help listeners stop ruminating and “get out of their heads,” ranging from the physical benefits of light box Therapy and Vitamin D to the mental shifts found in gratitude journaling and Volunteering. They also discuss the importance of setting boundaries, whether that means avoiding heated political discussions at the dinner table or giving yourself full permission to “opt-out” of the commercial holiday hype entirely.
If you are feeling overwhelmed or isolated this season, this episode offers a compassionate reminder to prioritize your own peace and create traditions that actually serve you. (For those wishing to connect with Jackie directly, she can be reached via email at [email protected].)
The power of gratitude: Barb talks to David Cravit and Larry Wolf
Holding on and letting go: Sustaining friendship in your golden years
Embracing the next chapter (and the universe’s little nudges) with comedy influencer Colleen Landry
Buy yourself flowers! Finding joy in uncertain times
What if you’re tolerating too much? Barb sits down with life coach Denise Torgerson
Dating in your 60s: Barb chats with relationship coach Tim Wade
Content on this site is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always check with your qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns regarding a medical condition.
