Top 3 Tricks for Beating Seasonal Depression
The holidays are known to be “the most wonderful time of the year”, and they definitely are! At the same time, the holidays are some of the hardest months for a lot of people to get through. Whether it’s depression sinking in deeper, battling grief from missing a loved one, the change in weather, or financial troubles, whatever your reason, the holidays can be difficult to navigate through for even the strongest of souls.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is real, and is related to the change in seasons every year. Most people’s symptoms of anxiety, moodiness, and depression begin in the fall and continue through to the end of the winter months.
I don’t know about you, but I absolutely see a shift in my mood as we head into the cooler months. The shorter days seem to trigger my anxiety and overall pep in my step. I have found that being proactive about this change in season has shifted my thoughts to a healthier and happier place.
MY TOP 3 TRICKS FOR BEATING SEASONAL DEPRESSION:
1 | Light Therapy
I have talked about my love for red light therapy before, but there is another kind of light therapy I have been implementing that has especially helped kickstarted my day. SAD light therapy mimics that mood boosting natural light that we often lack in the colder months and it really has brought a sense of well-being that has made a huge difference. If you’re interested in trying SAD light therapy make sure your light emits 10,000 LUX and it is made my a reputable company. There are a lot of great resources that share links to vetted companies or you can try mine!
2 | Take A Walk
I get it, when it’s cold outside and the sunlight is dwindling down, getting out for a walk is the last thing you want to do. But moving your body and getting a little fresh air is magic for the winter blues! I look forward to my post-dinner walk so much, but with the sun setting earlier than in warmer months, I have traded them for a pre-dinner stroll and I get to the table with my blood flowing ready for a cozy meal.
3 | Self-Care
As much as I talk about self care, you would think it comes naturally to build it into my day. I’m guilty of being held hostage by the never ending ‘to do’ list and with the days feeling shorter it seems I’m always racing around. BUT taking time to love ourselves is essential and easier to do than we think!
Draw a bath
Read a book
Take a nap
Meditate
Just give yourself a little love and permission to TAKE A BREAK. Self love and self care go hand-in-hand. Being your own biggest cheerleader may take a little practice, but once it becomes a part of your daily routine it’s a tool you can always count on.