Some Thoughts on Seasonal Depression

With the winter months approaching the days will become shorter and the darkness will be setting in earlier. Many people suffer from what is called Seasonal Depression and it can become very difficult to function. Fatigue sets in and living your daily life seems almost impossible at times (Almost like a bear hibernating). I myself have suffered this in the past. I would love to share some ideas and tips that I have used to help overcome that feeling.

First remind yourself that you have everything it takes to overcome these feelings. Being positive and knowing you have the tools is key.  Tell yourself that you are good and that you do Can this. Your body listens to everything you say and responds to it as well.  So I always watch my thoughts. Is this easy to do? No, But you can do it! I have faith in you.
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1. So let’s start off with one big question. What makes you happy? Think about it and think about all of your senses too. What is your happy smell, what music makes you happy? What are some of your favorite foods from seasons that you do well in and what places do you like to visit?

I will give some examples of what I do based on who I am.  ​

I love summer when it is not too hot or humid. I love the smell of coconut, and the sounds of waves crashing along the shore. So I buy a few bottles of lotions such “as after the sun” lotions that I use in the summer and I apply it in the winter. It also smells of coconut, (yummy). I also use candles that I would use in the summer such as Sun and sand from Yankee Candle. I use light colors in my home that remind me of the summer months. I cook on my grill throughout the year. I order my favorite summertime foods even in the winter months. I also love swimming so I have a membership to an indoor pool.  One of my most favorite things to do is lie on a towel on my floor with shorts and a t-shirt with sunscreen or lotion on and listen to a CD of the ocean and seagulls and I use memory recall and feel the sun warming my body. I am indulging all my senses to those that stimulate Joy.

The idea again is find what makes you happy, what is your happy smell? What food brings you joy? What sounds bring you peace? We are all unique and you need to find what works for you.

Some other tips are to get outside in nature. Nature is so healing. Go and smell the pine trees, go to the beach and smell the ocean. In the winter the evening sky is so clear and beautiful. Step out and star gaze. Go out and make snow angels. Another way is to bring nature inside to you. Plants help clear the air and are a great way to bring the outside in.  Buy yourself some flowers and use pictures of nature in your home. I myself have many plants, pine cones, sticks and shells all over my home. Earthing is a great way to stay grounded and connect to mother earth but when there is snow and ice, this gets difficult. I buy some potted soil and run my hands through the soil as well as my feet. Taking a bath with sea salt works wonders and helps clear your energy at the same time. You may also want to speak with your doctor and see if you should take a vitamin D supplement as well. Himalayan Salt lamps are great to have in your home. I also suggest bringing some of the ideas that work for you to your work space as well. Your favorite plant, smell and a salt lamp will help you get through your work day better. And let’s not forget music. Music has the power to heal on so many levels. What is your favorite music? What gets you hips moving? Sing and dance in your kitchen, your car ECT.  
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I have used these techniques for years and it has worked great. I had to re-train my brain and body daily for a while and now it’s just like brushing my teeth. At the first sign that I feel that it is trying to sneak in I start my routine that works for me and I hope that some these tips will work for you as well. Please feel free to share what worked for you and together we can smile though the winter months.

Blessings and love,
​Mary-Jo