How do I stay motivated when its grey and dreary outside?
Good question.
Seasonal depression is a real thing. Historically they've been called the "Winter Blues". Many people struggle during the late autumn and winter months. How do you combat it?
Simple ways to boost your mood as winter approaches:
-Vitamin D with magnesium supplement
-Light therapy (Like this)
-Talking about it/having support
-Renewing your mind!
The body needs the hormone Vitamin D (which needs magnesium to absorb)! When deficient the body suffers. Some symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency are:
Fatigue.
Not sleeping well.
Bone pain or achiness.
Depression or feelings of sadness.
Hair loss.
Muscle weakness.
Loss of appetite.
Getting sick more easily.
Our Vitamin D peaks in September and is the lowest in March.
Light Therapy
Expose yourself to natural light as much as possible. Even though it's cold, its still so good for you to bundle up and go outside! Winter isn't house arrest! Go hiking, explore some nature tails, make it a point walk the neighborhood, or even take the kids to the park! Getting outside is going to boost your spirits and your mental health.
The other form of light therapy, though promising, is going to vary person to person.
Community
SEE YOUR FRIENDS. Start a tradition where you have dinner at each other's houses every Friday or plan game nights and movies nights. Go get coffee with the girls. See people in PERSON. Don't become a shut-in because its so easy to crawl into our hobbit holes and become introverts.
For intense cases of SAD, you can consider talking to a therapist or counselor!
Renewing Your Mind
As a christian it's vital for me to remind myself of the truth every day. I am loved. I am cherished. I am not alone. God is pleased with me. I have purpose.
If there is a lie you're particularly dealing with, wake up and tell yourself the truth!
You can make it a point to make THIS winter different.
Your Doula,
Ally
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