Winter is coming, and many people experience a shift in mood during the cooler months. This is often referred to as the winter blues. The winter blues can be considered a milder form of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD is a subtype of major depressive disorder. The winter blues and SAD are similar in many ways. Symptoms can include sadness, lethargy, overeating, feeling less social than usual, difficulty performing at work, and more. The winter blues are common and can be combated with some simple tips. If you are experiencing extreme symptoms of depression like those associated with SAD, reach out to a trusted professional. Keep reading for five easy tips for lessening the winter blues.

Get Sunshine Whenever Possible

The absence of light is one of the main reasons many people feel more depressed during winter. The relationship between sunlight, melatonin (the sleep hormone), and serotonin (the wakefulness hormone) directly impact mood. This time of year it is crucial to take advantage of the sunlight whenever possible. Morning sun exposure is extremely beneficial for regulating your circadian rhythm and boosting serotonin levels. This in turn helps with getting better sleep at night and maintaining an elevated mood throughout the day. Morning sun exposure is not always possible, you can also try bundling up and taking a walk around noon when the sun is at its brightest and temperatures are typically at their warmest. At a minimum, keep your blinds open when you’re indoors to let in as much natural light as possible.

Stay Active

Exercise can help alleviate the winter blues and offset the weight gain common with seasonal depression. Outdoor exercise is most effective, but if it’s too cold or snowy, indoor exercise will help too. You don’t have to be a professional athlete to reap the benefits. Even 10 minutes of aerobic exercise daily can make a big difference. Try working out by a window if working out indoors.

Prioritize Social Activities

Wintertime darkness and weather have most people staying in more than during warmer months. Studies have found a clear link between social isolation and depression. Socializing with other people is important for both your physical and mental health. It can help ease feelings of loneliness and increase your sense of happiness and well-being. Make an extra effort to spend time with friends and family during this time. Outdoor activities like ice skating, snowshoeing, or skiing together are even better!

Incorporate a CBG Supplement into your Morning Routine

Pure Spectrum Vibrance is the perfect combination of CBD and CBG to support you through the gloomy winter months. This blend of cannabinoids is specifically formulated to help you start your day on the right foot. CBG has been shown to regulate mood and naturally boost anandamide (the bliss molecule) in the body. Anandamide is known for improving memory and other cognitive functions. The synergistic blend of CBD and CBG leaves you feeling awakened, lifts your mood, and helps sharpen your focus. Purchase yours here.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

Maintaining a healthy diet is critical for both physical and mental health. Eating the right proportions of carbohydrates, dairy, proteins, fruits, and vegetables can help boost your energy and mood. Vitamin D is especially important for fighting the winter blues. Our bodies produce vitamin D when exposed to sunlight, but in the winter, most people get a lot less sunlight. Taking Vitamin D supplements and eating foods high in vitamin D can help compensate for the lack of sun exposure. Salmon, egg yolks, and mushrooms are naturally high in vitamin D. Many other foods, such as milk, yogurt, orange juice, and tofu, are often fortified with vitamin D.

Sources:
https://www.oakstreethealth.com/winter-blues-seasonal-affective-disorder-680957

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/9-foods-high-in-vitamin-d#1.-Salmon

https://www.dignityhealth.org/articles/6-tips-for-overcoming-seasonal-affective-disorder

https://www.bbrfoundation.org/blog/winter-blues-or-seasonal-affective-disorder

https://www.allinahealth.org/healthysetgo/move/easing-sad-effects-with-exercise

https://www.1000hoursoutside.com/blog/exposure-to-morning-sunlight#:~:text=Exposure%20to%20early%2Dmorning%20sunlight%20enhances%20your%20mood.&text=Exposure%20to%20full%20spectrum%20sunlight,improves%20mood%20throughout%20the%20day.