5 Ways You Can Ease Seasonal Depression
It’s goodbye summer and hello fall! That means shorter days, longer nights, and—anyone else feeling a little moody?
During the colder seasons, you might notice yourself feeling a bit lazier or down. That’s thanks to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)—ironic, huh?—a type of depression triggered by the changing seasons. But don’t worry! With a few self-care tips and a boost of vitamin D, you’ll be back in high spirits in no time. Autumn and winter won’t dim your glow!
5 Ways You Can Ease Seasonal Depression
1. take in some good ole vitamin d
Did y'all forget the sun is still here when it's cold? Okay, it may not feel like Ms. Ray is still present, but her effects are just as powerful, even in the chill. Sunlight can do wonders for your mood and help your body get the vitamin D it needs. And if it’s too cold to soak up those rays, no worries! You can take vitamin D supplements or try light therapy to keep your spirits up.
2. Get up and exercise
It’s tempting to stay in bed during the cooler months—I’m definitely guilty of doom scrolling on TikTok under a thick blanket—but trust me, it only makes you feel worse. I get it, exercising can be daunting if the gym isn’t your thing, but there are plenty of rewarding alternatives. Throw on a coat and take a walk in nature, put on some music and dance, or queue up a YouTube yoga session. These physical activities can boost your mood and energy because they help your mind stay calm, clear, and focused.
3. hit up the animal shelter
Having a furry companion can provide emotional support and improve your overall well-being. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), interacting with animals can decrease levels of stress-related hormones, reduce loneliness, and lower blood pressure. Plus, who can resist the company of an adorable, loving pet?
4. Get lost in a book
Reading is a great way to escape and relax, providing a mental break from daily challenges that stress you out. Also, fall is the perfect time to thumb through romance, thriller, and mystery novels. So, snuggle up in a blanket and get ready to stimulate your mind.
5. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
Remember to stay hydrated by drinking water and avoiding sugary drinks. Dehydration is linked to memory loss, irritability, and headaches. Also, cold weather and indoor heating can lead to dehydration, so make sure that you’re drinking enough water to keep your brain functioning properly. Your body and mind will thank you.
It’s easy to let the cold breezes get the best of you, but it’s important to remember that taking care of yourself during these chillier months is key. Embrace the change of seasons by staying active, soaking up the sun when you can, and prioritizing hydration. With a little self-care, you can thrive in autumn and winter instead of just surviving. So, bundle up, get outside, and keep your spirits high—your glow deserves to shine all year round!