SAD; Nature Recognises it But us Humans Just Don't Get it

The winter months have more darkness, are colder and in general can be down right gloomy. We struggle getting out of bed and motivation can be found wanting even in the highest achievers in the world. We can experience more mood swings, energy loss, food cravings, weight gain and general depressive emotions in winter. SAD (seasonal affective disorder) is a real issue and I have heard quotes of as many as 1 person in 300 being affected by the condition in Australia. I prefer to call it the winter blues because from my understanding SAD is a very hard disorder to diagnose. Purely because of the overlap between sleeping problems and depression.

Nature is a great measuring tool from my perspective and on this issue I can actually compare how nature works and how wrong we as humans are getting it. Looking at nature you will see animals going into hibernation over winter. You will see caterpillars wrapping themselves into cocoons for the colder months. Birds either nesting down or flying the coup to warmer lands. Yet we carry on as normal and push ourselves even harder. The fact of the matter is we haven't much control over the winter blues because our circadian rhythms become confused due to less light to regulate our melatonin levels.

I have put together 3 steps that can help get through this period smoother but the last step I have highlighted is vital for the transition into this period from the summer months. They are as follows.
1. Get natural light and keep active - Although it may not be sunny you can still gain great value from getting outdoors and soaking up the natural light. While you are outside you may as well go for a walk, ride or run; this can be testing due to rain, work and temperature but it will help regulate sleep patterns and help boost energy.
2. Balanced Diet - Mood swings may be controlled with a balanced diet and regular meals. This will help control sugar cravings.
3. Plan for winter - If you are aware that the winter blues are a possibility then alter your lifestyle accordingly. Don't push when energy and moods are low. Listen to your body but don't play on it too much. Activity is still important. Take a mini break maybe.

It may be a good time when inside activities are favoured over outside activities to focus on ways to improve any physical restrictions that you may have. Or better still any mindset restrictions that may be holding you back from improving your health and well being. After all you want to be at your peak for summer don't you?