Winter Blues? Three Tips to Combat Seasonal Depression
While the winter months can be a time of celebration and gratitude, it can also be a time filled with feelings of sadness, discouragement, and simply feeling unmotivated and tired. Seasonal depression is a real thing and because of its commonality, can happen to anyone. It’s primarily due to longer nights and less sunlight (dropping the serotonin levels in our brain). Here are three tips to help combat the winter blues for the sake of positivity and productivity:
Step into the light. Stay in as many spaces as possible that are filled with light, even if the light is artificial. Although this may not be natural sunlight, it really does help.
Talk about it. You are not alone, there are so many like-minded individuals experiencing what you are experiencing. Whether causally or professionally, identify someone safe enough to speak with for support, gaining tools, and accountability.
Prioritize self-care + Keep yourself busy. Self-care is especially important during times when you’re in need of a pick me up. Have a game night with friends, go to the movies, listen to a podcast or watch funny videos, get a massage, take a getaway, exercise, journal…do what feels good, even if it’s small. Push through and do what your heart desires for relief within that moment. Time flies when you’re having fun!
Bonus: Get some vitamin D. Less sunlight during the winter months means less vitamin D in the body. Consider replenishing them with vitamin D rich foods (leafy greens, beans, salmon, dairy) and/or supplements. As always, please consult with your doctor first for the best insight.
The Consulting Firm is here to support you, please contact us if there is any way that we can be of help. Your first session is on us :)
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