Does this cold weather have you feeling down? For some of you, this is exciting and you are enjoying skiing, snowhoeing and building snowmen with your families. For others, this is the most dreaded time of year. Here are some tips to improve your mood this season.Here are some tips for preventing the “Winter Blues”, medically termed “Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)”.
- Get Outside. Now I know that it’s cold, but bundle up and breath in some fresh air and sunlight when you can. 10 minutes a day goes a long way to help keep your mood elevated.
- Omega 3 Fatty Acids. Having optimal omega 3 levels is important for maintaining mental health. Eat your fish, flax seeds and omega-3 eggs to make sure you are getting enough. If you are looking for a good quality fish oil, talk to us at your next appointment. There are some great and no so great options at health foods stores, so make sure yours is a great one. Snow Naturopathic carries a professional line fish oil for patients for convenience.
- Vitamin D. Check your blood levels to ensure that you are supplementing with the appropriate dose for your body. Low levels of vitamin D can have an affect on your immune system, bone health and most definitely your mood. Ask for this simple test at your next appointment. This is so vitally important for your mental health throughout the whole year, but definitely if you suffer from SAD. When supplementing with vitamin D, make sure it is D3 and taken with food to maximize absorption.
- Check in with yourself. Does your mood leave you feeling unmotivated? Lack of joy from previously enjoyable activities? Sleep disturbances? If you answered “yes” to any of these things, come in for an evaluation of your mood. There are several herbs and clinical nutrients that work really well at balancing mood. You are not alone and you don’t have to continue to feel this way.
May this winter bring fun adventures and a peaceful mind. Spend time with loved ones doing things you enjoy. We are around the corner from the promise of Spring, hang tight! We are almost there 🙂
In Health,
Dr. Karen