EMBRACING THE COSY SEASON | TIPS FOR TACKLING THE WINTER BLUES & SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER

 As the season shifts – it’s that time of year again when the air gets crisp, pumpkin spice fills your body, well it does in my case :), and everyone’s Instagram looks like an Autumn foliage appreciation account.

 But while autumn has its charm (cue the chunky boots and spooky movies), not all of us are over the moon about the changing season. For some, it comes with a side of the winter blues also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

So, if the dip in temperatures has your mood diving too, you're not alone. Let’s talk about what the winter blues are how it affects people, and what you can do to make it through the darker days with a smile – or at least without constantly wanting to hide away and cry!.

What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), and Why Does It Happen?

SAD is a type of depression that’s linked to the changing seasons, usually kicking in during Autumn and sticking around until spring. It happens because our bodies love sunlight – our brains actually depend on it for key processes that keep us happy and energised. As the daylight dwindles in autumn, our internal systems can get thrown off balance, leaving some people feeling low, lethargic, or just plain meh and really depressed!.

In technical terms, the lack of sunlight disrupts our circadian rhythms and drops serotonin levels (the feel-good chemical). Plus, melatonin – the hormone that makes you sleepy – kicks into high gear with the early sunsets, making you want to cosy up and hibernate. But unlike a bear, we don’t get to hibernate, I know, so not fair, we’re still expected to adult every day, even if all we want to do is hide under a blanket.

Get Moving (Even If You Don’t Feel Like It)

Exercise is nature’s mood booster. Even if you’d rather hibernate, trust me, the last thing I have wanted to do is exercise, but a short workout or walk has had amazing benefits to my mood and really sets me up for the day if I can get it done in the morning.

Maximize Your Sunlight Exposure

Since less sunlight is the culprit behind most of SAD’s effects, soaking up what little light there is can work wonders. As I mentioned above, a walk in the morning not only sets you up for the day but the early sun rays will boost your mood and help you feel so good.

Invest in a Light Therapy Lamp

 These lamps mimic natural sunlight, helping to regulate your body’s rhythms and improve your mood. Turn it on while you work, and you will notice the difference. I bought one quite a few years ago and would be lost without it during these months. Think of it as a morning coffee for your soul!

Stay Social 

When your instinct is to retreat, yes I know, I do the same, it’s even more important to stay connected with people. Plan a coffee date or get out and do some Christmas shopping, no it's not too early, never too early for Christmas spirit! :) .

Although this time of year can be difficult, it's really important to focus on the things you love about the seasons - Xmas for me, is my favourite time of the year, pumpkin spice lattes, cosy movie nights and cold walks with hot coffee in my hand.