7 Ways to Combat Seasonal Affective Disoder
It’s that time of year again where the days are short, the nights are long, and the winter blues start creeping in. This is your reminder that feeling low during the winter time, especially under a capitalist system, is not only normal but completely expected. Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a very real thing that could make you want throw in the towel, so the fact that you’re here reading this is an absolute win. Below are some easy ways to combat those feelings during the seasonal slump. And remember, it is always okay to reach out for help.
Let the light in
Numerous research shows how beneficial natural light can be for humans, especially during the colder months when there’s less daylight. The sun provides us with vitamin D, a vital nutrient that helps with immune and bone health. Try waking up with the sun and standing outside or in front of a sunny window for the first few minutes you’re awake.
Have an indoor dance party (or any kind of movement you like)
Whether it’s throwing on your favorite playlist and dancing freely or enjoying a yin yoga flow you found on YouTube, getting your body moving in the privacy of your own home is one of the best ways to beat the winter blues. Dancing and similar kinds of cardio release mood boosting endorphins that can help your brain produce more serotonin and even create new neural pathways.
Get creative with it
Several studies show that when people who are struggling with SAD create art, their cortisol levels drop. Cortisol is the key stress hormone in the body that can add to the negative feelings associated with the SAD season. Don’t worry if you aren’t an “artsy” person, as prior artistic talent and experience does not matter! Simply create with something as easy as stickers and construction paper.
Get Cozy (and prioritize rest)
Sometimes our bodies just need a second to catch up to our increasingly demanding lives. The winter is the perfect time to get cozy and have yourself a good old rest day. Make some soup, sip hot chocolate, bake cookies, and snuggle up in your favorite blanket. Remember to check in with yourself and give your body and mind what they need to feel recharged.
Crank those tunes
No matter what kind of music you’re into, listening to your favorites can alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression, which are prevalent during the darker and colder months. Music has the power to bring back happy memories at the times you need them most. Go ahead and play that album you memorized in high school. It’ll do you good!
Unplug
More and more research is being conducted that finds digital detoxes to be exceptionally curative. After a week without their smart phones, participants in a study showed improvement in their mental health that typically would take 8 to 12 weeks of psychotherapy to see results! Taking a digital detox is one of the best things you can do to relieve some of those often debilitating SAD symptoms.
Talk to Someone
Never be afraid to reach out and talk to a mental health professional. Investing in your mental health is always worth it and there is no harm in setting up a free 15 minute consultation. Reach out if you’re struggling with SAD and want to start your healing journey!
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