Don’t Be SAD: How Mums Can Boost Their Mood
Fall has just arrived, and winter isn’t too far away. During the first weekend in November, you’ll have to turn your clocks back an hour, meaning you lose an hour of daylight in the afternoon. Additionally, the weather gets colder and people want to stay indoors most of the time.
Unfortunately, a common phenomenon for many people is that they get the winter blues. Once the seasons change, you might find yourself feeling depressed or a bit more melancholy than usual. This is known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and it affects about 10 million Americans, including mums.
Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) occurs during a change of seasons, particularly in the fall and winter. It is a type of depression, and it often gets worse in the winter months before spring arrives.
Depending on the person, some may only experience a mild version of SAD called the “winter blues.” This is entirely normal, and a majority of people get the winter blues during the colder months. You’re stuck inside most of the day, and it gets dark earlier.
Beyond the winter blues is full SAD. This is a form of depression that you should not take lightly. Like depression, it can affect your daily life, thoughts, and feelings. Treatment is often necessary to help you get through this experience.
Fortunately, there are some ways to mitigate the effects of SAD. Here’s how mums can boost their mood this time of year.
Get Some Exercise
Although the days are darker in the winter, it’s still important to get out and get some exercise. Getting regular exercise can be just as effective as medication. Exercise of any form can boost endorphins, serotonin, and other feel-good hormones and chemicals in your body.
Rhythmic exercises tend to work well for depression. These would include activities like walking, swimming, dancing, and weight training. Try to get at least 30 minutes of exercise every day to feel the full healing effects. Get your whole family involved, too!
Spend Time With Friends and Family
When you feel sad or depressed, making and keeping plans with friends and family can be challenging. However, during those times, being with other people can be one of the best things you can do to beat the winter blues.
Close relationships are vital for reducing feelings of isolation. Reach out to your friends and make it a regular habit to grab a coffee or lunch, or go for a walk with them. You can also choose to volunteer and meet new people or even join a support group for depression.
Go Outside as Much as Possible
The winter season brings along cold and sometimes harsh weather. However, on days where the sun is shining and it’s a bit warmer than usual, take advantage of them and go outside. Soak in all of the vitamin D possible.
If you can’t get outside, open your windows and let in natural sunlight. Another way to get more light is to use daylight simulation lamps and paint your walls with lighter colours. Even in small doses, sunlight can boost your mood instantly.
Maintain a Regular Schedule
People who have SAD may have trouble sleeping at night and getting up in the morning. By sticking to a regular routine in the morning and at night, you’ll get better sleep. Sleep is essential for overall health, especially when you go through bouts of seasonal depression.
Additionally, a regular schedule exposes you to sunlight at predictable and consistent times. Make sure you’re eating at consistent times as well. This will help you maintain your weight and feel your best self.
Write Out Your Thoughts
Journaling can be a great way to get out your negative thoughts and feelings. Grab a pen and a notebook and take a few minutes every day to write down what’s going on in your mind. The best time to write is at night so you can reflect on your day.
In addition to writing your thoughts, write down affirmations and things you’ve accomplished. When you look back on the journal, you can see how far you’ve made it even through a difficult season of SAD.
Take a Vacation
The best time to plan a vacation to the beach is in the winter. Getting away to a sunny, warm place can be just the cure for your seasonal depression. Gather your kids and family and get away from the cold winters and snow for a while.
Travel helps break up mundane routines and gives you a mood boost. The excitement surrounding a vacation starts when you plan it and continues throughout and beyond your return from vacation.
Do What You Enjoy
Finally, do things you enjoy throughout the fall and winter seasons. Enjoy a few spa days, bake with your kids, go for a drive to view the fall colours, and celebrate the holidays surrounded by the people you love most.
Practice daily relaxation techniques and find the things that stress you out during the day. Be proactive and take steps to minimize their impact on your life. Push yourself to get out and do something, and most importantly, have fun.
Beating the Wintertime Blues
With these tips, you can be sure to boost your mood, ensuring it is the most wonderful time of the year. Seasonal affective disorder affects many people, but don’t let it get you down this winter.
*This is a collaborative post
