Low energy, feeling down, craving carbs, sleeping more, difficulty concentrating… that’s S.A.D. For some people, Seasonal Affective Disorder begins to creep in late fall/early winter, around the time the clocks fall back. The symptoms can persist and may even get worse the deeper into the winter season we get, particularly in January and February, with the added pressures of the New Year.
The main culprit of S.A.D. is the lack of sunlight. Without enough daylight hours in the winter months, finding your rhythm can simply be exhausting and can last until early spring if you don’t do something about it.
Here are 5 Tips for Beating the Winter Blues to feel more fortified.
- Sunshine. Whenever, however. Get sunlight in your eyes first thing in the morning if you can and throughout the day. Vitamin D is imperative for your mental health and pure, radiant sunlight is the best way to get it. If you cannot get direct sunlight first thing in the morning, try Light Box Therapy. The recommended intensity of a light therapy lamp is 10,000 lux and can be found for very affordable prices online. Getting that early dose of sunlight will help get you back to optimizing the daylight hours as well as maintaining your rhythms and routines throughout the day.
- Movement. Every day in some way. Whether it’s taking 15 minutes to stretch, go for a walk, dance, foam roll, yoga, lift weights…Just add some movement into your daily routine that increases your heart rate, makes you sweat, or increases feel good hormones to give you more vibrant energy throughout the day.
- Nourishment and Supplements. Feed your body whole foods, root vegetables, leafy greens, soups, and warm meals to give your body the nutrients it needs. If you need to supplement your eating, it’s always good to consult with your doctor first. Some supplements that act as natural antidepressants and are evidence backed for being helpful in combating S.A.D. are Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, and Omega-3s.
- Connection. It’s easy to hibernate and hide away this time of year and we have plenty of excuses with the weather, sickness, deadlines, etc. Staying connected with friends and family on a routine basis is proven to increase feel good hormones that assist in warding off winter blues.
- Mindful Meditation. Taking a few minutes each day to simply honor your rest cycles. Allow yourself quiet time for inner reflection and deep breathing. This is a period of hibernation, after all.
There’s a new Kid’s Gym in Town!