Beat the Winter Blues (or Seasonal Affective Disorder)
It’s inevitable for some…as the days grow darker, so does their mood. They complain of low energy, sleeping all the time, no desire to do things they would typically enjoy and the inability to feel joy. Sure these can be depression symptoms. But for some, it’s seasonal. Only occurring in the winter months. The dreads. They usually feel great in the summer and the rest of the year.
So what can they do besides take an anti-depressant???
I recommend taking 1,000 i.u. of Vitamin D3 daily. Low vitamin D levels are a common cause of depression and this is so treatable. Since we are indoors so much and use sunblock, we often do not get enough sun exposure. Your health and mood are related to your exposure to sunlight. Being exposed to light can raise our serotonin levels (neurotransmitter responsible for mood, sleep, appetite, libido). When it’s dark, your melatonin levels increase, which is why you may feel tired when the sun starts to set in the afternoon. Using full spectrum light boxes can also increase your exposure to light indoors. If that isn’t an option, get outside for your walk or lunch in nature to keep yourself regulated.
2017 New Year = New You
Which will you choose to implement?
- I surround myself with healthy people that inspire me to be my best self.
- I deserve to eat the foods that provide the most nutritional benefits to my health.
- It is OK to let go of the emotional vampires that are draining my energy.
- I find 30 minutes each day to love myself by meditating, exercising, resting, playing or giving to myself without guilt.
