As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, many of us may find ourselves grappling with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression that occurs at a specific time of year, typically during the winter months. SAD can leave us feeling lethargic, moody, demotivated and craving carbohydrates and sweets. But the good news is that there are ways to combat its effects and prioritise our well-being during the colder seasons.
Here are three of our favourite helpful tips to navigate SAD:
- Get Plenty of Natural Light
Exposure to natural light, is crucial for regulating our body's internal clock and maintaining healthy sleep-wake cycles. Exposure to daylight in the morning is crucial to keep our circadian rhythm in check. Make an effort to spend time outdoors during daylight hours, even if it's just a short walk around the block in your lunch hour! - Stay Active
Speaking of short walks… regular exercise has been shown to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, making it a powerful tool for managing SAD. Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine, whether it's that brisk walk, a yoga session, or heading to the gym for weight or resistance training. Not only will exercise boost your mood, but it will also help support your immune system, helping you stay both fit and healthy throughout the winter months and for years to come. - Practice Self-Care
Take time for self-care activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Whether it's laying in a warm bath, journaling your thoughts, or curling up with a good book, prioritise activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Self-care can help reduce stress levels and improve overall well-being, making it easier to cope with the challenges of SAD. - BONUS TIP! Comfort Food… the Healthier Way!
When the winter blues hit, it's tempting to reach for comforting, but unhealthy foods loaded with sugar. Instead, opt for nourishing comfort foods that satisfy your cravings without compromising your health goals and avoid excessive sugar and refined carbohydrates. It’s important to get your fill of gut loving foods every day, as the gut is a primary driver in your body’s production of serotonin. An easy way to maintain a healthy gut microbiome is to add gut-loving foods to every meal; whether that be fermented foods such as kimchi, kombucha, sauerkraut and kefir or your favourite, fruit, vegies or nuts, it all helps! You can find a range of delicious recipes, such as our Low Carb Choc Pudding or Chocolate Walnut Brownies on our blog, that are lower in sugar but oozing with that warm chocolatey goodness that we all crave! Pop on some woolly socks, your comfy robe and throw together one of our better-for-you treats for a cosy night in while still keeping your health on track.-2.png?width=2548&height=1028&name=Lakanto%20Chocolate%20Walnut%20Brownies%20(99%25%20Sugar-Free)-2.png)
By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can better manage the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder and prioritise your well-being throughout these cooler months.
Remember to reach out to a healthcare professional if you're struggling with SAD and need additional support.
