Some people look forward to the leaves changing colors and the cool weather that fall brings, but for others? The colder, shorter and darker days wreak havoc on their mental health and well-being. For some, it’s just the winter blues, but it could be seasonal affective disorder (SAD), also called seasonal depression, which tends to crop up at the same time every year, typically when there’s less sunlight.
Starting your day with mood-boosting, mental health-protecting practices can potentially help you feel better as winter approaches, according to psychologist Serenity Serescion. Try these tweaks to your morning routine to help lighten your mood.
- Wake up at the same time every day - Yes, we mean weekends, too. A common symptom of SAD is a change in sleep quality and quantity - either snoozing more or less. That’s why Dr. Serescion recommends sticking to a sleep schedule to give your mind a body a routine it can rely on so you continue to get the sleep you need.
- Wake up with natural light - The lack of light in the winter months can contribute to SAD, so it’s important to soak up as much sunlight as possible. That means opening the blinds in the morning to catch some natural light, or using a sunlight-simulating lamp that mimics natural light and research shows it can alter brain chemicals related to mood.
- Get active in a way that works for you - Exercise is great for the body and brain and it’s a huge way to defend against SAD, in part, because it releases a lot of feel-good chemicals, like dopamine and serotonin, that can boost your mood. It doesn’t have to be an intense workout, just do whatever feels good to you and that you’ll keep doing because being consistent is key.
- Eat a nutrition-packed breakfast - Balanced, nutrient-dense meals full of protein, vitamins, fats and carbs can help regulate your mood and energy levels throughout the day. And that helps you avoid low blood sugar levels or full-on hanger that can wreck your mood.
Source: Well and Good
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