For some people, the short days and long nights of winter bring about a depressed mood. There are medications that can help, but these often come with potentially serious side effects, and there is no guarantee that they will work.
Many people prefer to use natural methods to alleviate their seasonal sadness, so that they can enjoy all of the fun things that winter has to offer.
Be mindful of your sugar intake
Sugar can result in dependence, and its feel-good effects are just temporary. In fact, it leads to a rather horrific-feeling crash shortly after that sugary treat is gone. On top of that, sugar has been linked to depression and other mood disturbances. If you get an appetite for something sweet, consider some fruit and raw honey instead.
Get more omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids have a naturally beneficial effect on your emotional health. You can easily get more of these nutrients from fatty fish such as wild-caught salmon and sardines, and seeds such as flax, chia and hemp. When you get adequate amounts of this nutrient, you will enjoy a more stabilized mood.
Help others
Losing yourself in helping others is a great way to find yourself. During the winter, there are plenty of opportunities to visit elderly people in nursing homes, children in hospitals and the homeless at shelters. Acts of altruism and participating in a noble cause help to battle depression.
Get a sun lamp
The significant reduction in sunlight is a common cause of the winter blues. You may consider obtaining a sun lamp, which helps to make up for some of the sun that you are not getting outside. You just sit under this light to reap the antidepressant benefits. Make sure to choose a light that delivers 10,000 lux.
Exercise regularly
Regular exercise is important for overall health, and is specifically known for promoting better emotional health. You can head to a gym, go outside or workout at home as long as you can do something that you enjoy. There are plenty of exercise videos that you can get for free online which require no equipment, and you can do them anywhere in your home. Aim to exercise for at least 30 minutes, five days each week.
Brighten up
The winter brings dreariness and lack of color. You can add some bright, fresh flowers to your home, wear bright clothes and accessories or even switch to a bright pen color. This helps to elevate your mood and make you feel happier. It is best to avoid dark clothing, or add something bright to a dark outfit, to make you think of spring and summer.
If you have questions about any natural remedies, talk to your doctor first to ensure absolute safety.
Like all winter blues remedies, it may take a few days to find one that really works for you because all people are different. In some cases, you can combine remedies to increase the beneficial blues-busting effects.
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
http://draxe.com/7-ways-to-beat-the-winter-blues
http://www.healthline.com/health/depression/winter-blues
http://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/winter-blues
