As the seasons change and dark and gloomy weather is more and more prevalent, many people’s moods shift. While not everyone can feel the effects of the shifting seasons, some people suffer severely from seasonal mood change or seasonal depression. With the threat of viruses on the rise this year in particular it is especially important to prioritize your mental health. For many people, the ability to gather with loved ones is limited which can worsen the effects of seasonal depression so we’ve outlined some safe and natural remedies that anyone can use to combat the effects of seasonal depression.
Get Outdoors
While the time has changed and darkness seems to overtake your afternoons, getting enough sunlight can actually help you fight those negative moods associated with seasonal depression. Going for a walk during your few hours of sunlight or spending time outdoors with your family is a great way to get some Vitamin D as well as lighten your mood. Even though the sun is setting at 5pm in the wintertime, it's easy to get some time in the sun, whether it's in the morning or during your lunch hour. Getting outside is even easier when it's paired with exercise. Going for a run outdoors or attending an outdoor exercise class can help you increase your endorphins and get some Vitamin D, all while improving your mood.
Exercise
Exercise is scientifically proven to improve your mood via our body’s chemistry, so making some time for exercise can be an excellent resource for tackling seasonal depression head-on. Whether you like to take exercise classes, hit the gym, or stay at home and complete a virtual exercise class, any of these will help you get into better spirits during this difficult time. With the world shifting in order to better accommodate those who chose to stay home and self-isolate from the threat of viruses, getting your daily exercise in is easier than ever. With fitness available from your fingertips, you can stay on track no matter what your situation is.
Practice Mindfulness
Human emotions are complex and confusing, so taking the time to sift through them and truly bring total awareness to the mind and body can be helpful for a lot of people. Connecting with your mind by ways of guided meditation, breathing techniques, and movement can bring you out of your head and allow you to focus on the positives in your life. Accompanying these mental exercises with physical exercises, like yoga, can help bring balance and peace to your mind, alieving your negative feelings often associated with seasonal depression. Trying a guided meditation program or a yoga program as well as using pre-filmed classes, like the ones offered on the Calistoga Fit App, can help you get started if you are unsure how to begin your journey.
Winter can be a difficult time for people, especially this year, affecting your mood for months. Try any of these tips for some relief from negative emotions that weigh you down so you can enjoy the holiday season in good spirits. Want a more hands-on approach to your health and wellness? We’re here to help!