4 Top Tips to Address Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) holistically
What is SAD?
For some, the changes of seasons is something they love, with the leaves changing, everything becoming a little crisper and cosier, and festive music playing. For many others however, the change of seasons can bring feelings and symptoms of depression, from a low mood to changes in sleep patterns, feeling lethargic, and not having an interest in activities you usually enjoy. SAD can occur throughout any change of season but is most common in the move from the bright sunny summer to the darker cooler winter.
The main theory behind SAD is the shorter darker days and lack of sunshine impacts a part of your brain which is responsible for producing two hormones - serotonin and melatonin - and your internal body clock.
So what can you do if you’re feeling like you’re impacted by SAD? Here are my top 5 tips for holistic health practises that may help you feel well during this time!
Light up your life
Firstly, make sure that you’re getting out and about and soaking up as much natural sunlight as possible. Whether that’s a walk, or pulling back the curtains and blinds fully to let the light into your home.
Secondly, introducing light therapy into your home has been proven to help with SAD. Light boxes or lamps from companies such as LUMIE are programmed to mimic the natural light in the morning, through the day, and in the evening.
Focus on a well-balanced diet
Around 90% of the serotonin we produce is actually produced in our gut. Serotonin is the key hormone that stabilizes our mood, contributes to a sense of well-being, and promotes feelings of happiness. By maintaining a well-balanced diet, you can help ensure a healthy gut plus that happy hormone to help you through the season.
Move your body
Regular and consistent physical activity has been shown to boost mood and reduce depression and SAD. In recent studies from the University of Kent and University of Reading, researchers found the combination of fruit and vegetable consumption and exercise together increased levels of happiness.
Aromatherapy oils
Whether you’re filling up your oil diffuser, adding a few drops to a bath, or putting a drop on a pulse point, aromatherapy oils can truly impact how we feel through our senses. There are three brilliant oils which if you’re feeling the impact of SAD could help…
Lavender - lowers anxiety, decreases stress, helps you relax
Ginger - lowers anxiety, decreases stress, creates a warming and cosy ambiance
Bergamot - uplifting, calming, significantly lowers anxiety