Holistic ways to combat seasonal depression

Raise your hand if you have ever been personally victimized by seasonal depression. Seasonal depression, or SAD (seasonal affective disorder) is upon us. This type of depression is related to the changes in season and usually begins and ends at about the same time each year. It has a lot to do with the colder weather, shorter days, and less sunlight. Many people suffer with this specific type of depression and not even know it! But we are wiser this year, we are staying in front of it. I have listed some holistic tips to help you combat it this year. 

Supplements- 

Vitamin D is extra important because we aren’t getting much sun. Vitamin D also boost immunity which is needed during cold and flu season. 

Magnesium plays a critical role in brain function and low levels of magnesium increase the risk of depression. Let’s keep those levels up during this time of the year. 

Probiotics- A healthy gut is the cure to mostly everything. During the colder season, we are more likely to crave higher fatty foods and refined carbs so adding in a probiotic will help aid in the digestion and overall health of your microbiome. 

Eat your root vegetables-

Tis the season of root vegetables. Ginger, sweet potatoes, carrots, beets, onions, garlic, and so many more vegetables to help keep you centered and grounded.

Herbs- 

There are many ways to add herbs into your lifestyle. Often we think of teas, which are great for the colder weather, but you can also incorporate tinctures and aromatherapy, which have great benefits as well. If you’ve never tried ashwagandha, this is the perfect time to add it into your routine. Ashwaganda is a powerful adaptogen with numerous benefits. It helps reduce stress and anxiety, reduces stress, depression and anxiety, and helps improve sleep. Other herbs that you can add in include chamomile, lavender, sandalwood, and palo santo. These are all great for keeping our moods nice and stabilized.

Movement-

Add in some workouts to keep you warm but energized. Think hot yoga, pilates, and infrared saunas. We don’t want to burn out and use all of our energy reserves so taking it nice and slow is preferred. Don’t forget about walking! Cozy up with some sweats, coffee or tea, and go for a nice stroll in the cooler weather. 

Good sleep-

We need good quality sleep, period. Quality sleep looks different for everyone but really try to prioritize rest. Listen to your body. Take 15 minute power naps to rejuvenate instead of going for another Starbucks run. Try to cut down on screen time before bed to aid in more deep less and less REM sleep. 

Spend as much time with loved ones-

Does this need much of an explanation? Love on your kids, family and friends. Hug them tight, say I love you, ask how they are doing. Explore meaningful deep connections with those around you. Boost those serotonin levels by simply being present with those you love. 

If there are other ways to combat SAD season, please share with our community below!