By Carmen Veale, Property Management Inc.
Do you find yourself battling a shift in moods and energy levels? Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), often referred to as seasonal depression, affects millions of individuals. Some symptoms include feelings of sadness, fatigue, and isolation during the colder months. This is a common experience, and you’re not alone. There are ways to manage and even overcome these seasonal changes. Especially during February when you are surrounded by love and infatuation. In this article, we’ll explore practical tips and strategies to help you navigate the winter months with a brighter outlook, and to maintain your mental well-being, and embrace the season with resilience. Here are some tips to help:
- Essential Oils/ smells.
Essential oils and specific smells are known to reduce stress in the workplace and overall minimize anxiety. Take Lavendar for example, that has calming properties to help reduce stress. I personally find the smell of Coffee to be awakening and calming in the morning. I found that my smell is by bath and body works called Paris Cafe (Candle). Experiment which essential oils may be most effective in addressing your specific symptom and needs.
- Red light therapy
Red light therapy is a great way to overcome SAD but rarely talked about. Seasonal Depression is considered “seasonal” because individuals mostly get it during the cold months due to the lack of sun. Red Light therapy circulates blood, Boost serotonin, and reduces inflammation helping to minimize SAD
- Medication
Sometimes SAD needs to be discussed with your provider and may require medication. That is nothing to be ashamed about. Our hormonal levels may need help in order to address our seasonal depression. Consider talking to your health care team. You are not alone.
- Breathing exercises:
Take time to practice breathing exercises. This can help reduce your chances of seasonal depression by minimizing anxiety attacks and circulating blood better.
- Music
Music Is known to be a mood enhancement and improve sleep. There are ranges of songs and categories to help your mood. Consider hip hop and pop to make you motivated and energized. Try Beethoven or Jazz to help you sleep or even punk music when you are in a mood to release aggression. Music is also a social connection that brings people together. Due to the cold winters people are rarely outside causing them to get SAD. Consider trying to connect with music to get more human interaction during the cold weather.
I hope you find these tips to help you conquer seasonal depression. Remember these are all normal feelings and if you feel that you are unable to manage them, please consult a professional.
