As winter comes closer, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is something that many people will have to deal with over the coming months. SAD is thought to be triggered by the change in seasons, and will leave sufferers feeling down, sad and sometimes depressed.
If you think you may be suffering with SAD then do seek medical advice, but in the meantime there are lots of other things you can do to try to ease the symptoms and shake the winter blues off.
Top tips for easing the symptoms of SAD
Be honest!
Be honest about how you’re feeling with your friends, family and colleagues. If they don’t know what you’re going through then they won’t be able to try and understand. So if you feel comfortable sharing, then explain what’s going on – you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how much those around you will want to support you.
Listen to what your body is telling you
Listen to your body and what it needs. You may find that your energy changes due to the seasonal darkness, so it might be worth switching up your routine around this. Try to work your daily routine to allow you to get as much daylight as possible.
Try some different classes
Try gentler forms of activity to compliment higher intensity sessions. Sessions like yoga and Pilates are ideal to create balance in the body.
Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables
Ensure you eat well. The body is designed to eat seasonal vegetables and fruits throughout the year. This is because we have different vitamin and mineral requirements during the different seasons. So try to stick to healthy meals, with vegetables that are in season at the time – trust us, you’ll notice the difference!
Wrap up and get walking!
If you’ve lost the motivation to run during the winter months, then why not change your regular run for a fast walk instead. You can wrap up warm, grab a friend and stroll together. The fresh air, and daylight is a great way to combat the symptoms of SAD.
Don’t be too hard on yourself
Lots of us have a real habit of being very hard on ourselves. But if you’re feeling down, remind yourself that it’s your body adjusting to this new season.
Adding exercise into your routine is a great way to combat the symptoms of SAD – so, if you’d like to find out what your local David Lloyd Club could offer, then click here where you’ll be able to find out more information and enquire now.
Comments by Lauren