Do you find yourself feeling depressed during the colder months? It’s normal, and there are ways to fight it. 

For some people, those cold, dark and rainy winter days can hit especially hard. Less daylight hours and dreary skies have a way of sneaking into our mood. This leaves us feeling tired, unmotivated and sad. It can feel like, with the sun disappearing, it’s taking your good mood with it. 

I’ve noticed in my own life how the change in seasons can feel emotionally heavy. Some days it’s harder to get out of bed in the morning, and I usually feel like doing nothing. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many people go through what’s often called the “winter blues,” or even Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

The good news is, we don’t have to live with it. There are so many natural ways to care for yourself during this time of year. Small habits and remedies can bring light into the darker months. Before we go over the ways you can fight this, let’s dig into what SAD really is. 

What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

If you’ve ever felt your mood dip as winter is approaching, your body may need some extra support. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs during the colder seasons — usually starting in late fall and continuing through the winter months. 

The lack of sunlight can disrupt your body’s circadian rhythm, lower certain hormones and increase melatonin. All of this can leave you feeling exhausted and depressed without an obvious reason.

You may notice changes, like:

• Feeling sad and hopeless

• Sleeping a lot, yet still tired

• Having no motivation

• Hard time focusing

• Craving sweets

• Feeling isolated and antisocial

Feeling these things is no fun, but remember you’re not alone. There are natural ways to gently support your mood and energy during this season. Small, intentional steps in your daily routine can help you feel more like yourself again.

7 Ways to Work Through Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) 

To better cope with SAD, your body needs a little extra support to thrive during this season. Keep reading for helpful and practical tips to combat the wintertime blues. 

1. Spend Time With Loved Ones

It can be easy to isolate yourself, which can make the winter blues feel even heavier. So it’s important to intentionally connect with your loved ones. Schedule a coffee date with a friend, plan a family gathering or make a phone call and chat away. 

Human connection helps break the cycle of loneliness and reminds you that you’re not going through this season alone. Isolation will only make you feel worse.

2. Stay Active

Exercise is one of the most natural ways to boost your mood. Moving your body helps release endorphins, improves circulation and eases built-up tension in your body. 

You don’t need to go to the gym and buy a membership or fancy equipment — just find something you enjoy. Do an at-home workout, or go for a nice walk outdoors. Even just 15–20 minutes of movement can greatly impact your emotions. Creating a routine for yourself can help you stay consistent, even when it’s challenging. 

3. Get Outside

Getting outside in the natural light can be one of the best ways to lift your spirits during the winter months. Fresh air and daylight will regulate your emotions and circadian rhythm. 

Try taking a short walk in the morning, sipping your coffee on the porch or opening your blinds wide to let the sunlight pour in. These small, consistent habits are powerful tools in fighting off the winter blues.

4. Eat Healthy Foods

What we eat can really affect how we feel. In the winter, it’s easy to reach for processed foods loaded with sugar, but these can actually make your mood swings worse. Instead, focus on nutrient-dense meals made with nourishing whole foods. 

This is the perfect time to eat more hearty soups, roasted root vegetables and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon or walnuts. Click here to check out my recipe blog for nourishing, seasonal meals made with lean ingredients to support your body. 

5. Create a Good Nighttime Routine

Good sleep is essential for managing mood and energy. Especially when the winter blues often leave you tossing and turning. A calming bedtime routine can make all the difference. 

Try dimming the lights an hour before bed, unplugging from screens and reading a book. To help your body relax, use some of our Sweet Serenity Magnesium Balm. We have both lavender-scented and unscented versions of this magnesium balm. Magnesium helps ease sore muscles and promotes deep, restful sleep, while lavender essential oil is known for its calming properties. 

6. Practice Gratitude

Having a positive mindset won’t magically erase the SAD, but it can help a lot. Set aside a few minutes each day to write down three things you’re grateful for. Use this time to calm your mind and remember all the good in your life. 

This can put things into perspective and remind you that you’re blessed, and the good often outweighs the bad. These small acts of mindfulness can create a sense of peace and reframe the way you see your day, even when the skies are gray.

7. Sip Some Calming Teas

There’s something so comforting about wrapping your hands around a warm mug of tea on a cold, dark day. Herbal teas can soothe your nervous system, support your immune system and create a moment of peace and relaxation in your busy day. 

Our Loose Leaf Teas are perfect for this. There are plenty of options to pick from, such as our immunity blend, sleep-supporting teas and herbal ones as well.

You’ve Got This

The winter blues are hard, but they don’t have to define you by taking small, intentional steps. Getting outside for fresh air, moving your body, nourishing yourself with wholesome foods and creating calming routines can bring more light, warmth and joy into the colder months. You can do this, it’s possible. 

If you’d love more simple wellness tips and nourishing recipes, join our newsletter by clicking here! Let’s walk through this season by supporting our bodies naturally.