As much as we love hot cocoa and snow days, there are times when the winter blues inevitably kick in. Seasonal Depression is a very real thing and there are many remedies that can alleviate its symptoms. We’ve put together a few tips you can try at home to boost your mood.
Getting the winter blues is a scientifically proven phenomenon. In fact, it’s technically called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which is a very fitting name. The American Academy of Family Physicians shared that up to 20% of U.S. residents experience a mild form of SAD each year and it tends to kick in when the days get shorter and colder. Luckily, there are a variety of remedies you can bring into your home, so it’s full of happy, healthy vibes.
1. Diffuse Essential Oils.
Head to your local health store to buy an ultrasonic diffuser and some essential oils. You can get a diffuser for as little as $15. This form of aromatherapy can help build your resilience to catching a cold, promote better sleep, improve productivity and support emotional health. Try out the Bergamot essential oil to create an uplifting aroma in your home. Bergamot can help alleviate tension, stress, anxiety, insomnia and agitation.
2. Use a Light Box.
Light therapy boxes emit light that mimics sunshine. Sitting in front of it for 30 minutes a day can stimulate your body’s circadian rhythms and suppress its natural release of melatonin. The University of Michigan Depression Center found that Light Therapy can be most effective in the morning. Put your light by your computer and boost your mood as you sip your AM coffee and answer emails.
3. Make Berries & Bananas easy to grab.
Just because you won’t be in a swimsuit any time soon doesn’t mean it’s not important to continue eating colorfully. Berries like blueberries, raspberries and strawberries have been found to help prevent the release of cortisol. The release of cortisol happens when we are stressed, so eating these berries can help when your stress levels are high. Get them washed and store them in a glass container so they last longer.
Another fruit to have on hand is bananas. The carbohydrates from natural sugars and potassium in bananas help fuel your brain. Magnesium, also found in bananas, may improve sleep and reduce anxiety — two symptoms of seasonal depression.
4. Keep Decor Cheery + Bright.
Just because the holidays are over doesn’t mean you have to go back to drab and dreary decor. Keep twinkly lights on throughout your home so the mood stays magical and fun (it also helps you see since it gets dark so early!). Keep candles handy to create a relaxing atmosphere and place throw blankets around the home so you and your family stay cozy.
5. Get some Gerber Daisies.
During your next grocery store visit, add a small bouquet of Gerber Daisies to the cart. These vibrant flowers remove benzene from the air. Benzene is an industrial chemical widely used in the creation of plastics, dyes, detergents and more. Not only do Gerber Daisies clear out a harmful chemical, but they also add beauty and color to the room.
