Ways To Combat Seasonal Depression

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Seasonal depression can be uncomfortable to experience. It’s also very common, so remember you aren’t alone.

Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is most common in the winter months. It’s thought that the interruption to the body’s internal clock may be one of the culprits. The winter season can be harder on some people due to the lack of sunshine and time spent outside. The decrease in the number of daylight hours is another factor. If you are one of many who are affected by seasonal depression, there are some ways that you can help to alleviate your symptoms to get some relief.

Avoid Toxins

Toxins are present in most everything, from food to the air we breathe. The body is naturally equipped to cleanse these toxins, but sometimes it gets backed up and the build up of toxins cause uncomfortable symptoms. When you are already feeling off due to the changing seasons, you want to take extra care to avoid toxins wherever possible.

Try to keep your home clean, avoid areas with heavy pollutions, and be mindful of the products you use. Even cosmetics and lotions can contain some harmful ingredients that are absorbed through your skin. Read your product labels and choose products that avoid the chemical-laden formulas and use natural ingredients, like this strawberry lip balm.

Eat Well

Organic, whole foods are the best choices for a healthy diet. Those toxins can easily get into your food since many crops are treated with pesticides for a higher yield. Choose organic produce wherever possible.

When you are feeling down, it is vital that you give your body the extra support it needs to thrive. Make yourself some nutritious, wholesome meals to feel your body and your soul.

Develop a Spiritual Practice

Depression causes a lot of uncomfortable and negative thoughts and feelings. You can counteract that by developing a spiritual, or self-care practice. Get to know yourself a little more and explore your true self. A meditation practice is a great way to connect with yourself and develop your spirituality. Learning to sit and just be with your breath will teach you how to exist in the moment and release the worry and stress that often consumes the whole day.

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It takes time to get good at any new activity, so remember to be gentle with yourself. Mistakes and mishaps on any journey are just another lesson to be learned, and in no way detract from the experience.

Exercise Daily

You know the importance of getting up and moving your body each day. It may seem more difficult to do during times of seasonal depression, but that just makes it all the more important. Don’t push yourself to do an extreme workout that will drain your energy and exhaust you further. Instead, try a calming yoga flow.

Yoga is a great choice for strengthening the body, improving balance and flexibility, and even centering yourself and becoming more mindful. There are a number of styles to choose from, so you can certainly find one that appeals to you.

Get Some Light

The lack of sunlight during the winter months can make anyone feel sluggish and sad. Try to counteract the effects of wintertime by getting outside whenever you can. When that rare sunny day arrives, take advantage and spend time outdoors. For the rest of the days, try a lightbox. This light therapy helps to regulate your body’s circadian rhythm.

Talk To Your Doctor

If you are experiencing any uncomfortable physical or emotional symptom, you should speak with your doctor. A qualified medical professional will listen to you and help you to decide if you would benefit from a prescription or other therapy. You can still continue doing all the other beneficial practices mentioned as a complement to medical treatment.

Seasonal depression may hit you hard or be barely noticeable some days. The most important thing is to listen to your body and seek help if you don’t feel well. There are a lot of effective treatments available to help you get back to feeling like yourself.

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