Feeling S.A.D? Embrace Autumn With These Natural Mood Boosters

Feeling S.A.D? Embrace Autumn with these natural mood boosters

‘If it doesn’t make you feel good, let it go’

There are many reasons to get excited about Autumn, hello pumpkin latte’s, cosy jumpers, and snuggly nights in! Yet the change in season can be tough if you suffer from (S.A.D) seasonal affective disorder.

What is S.A.D?

Studies confirm S.A.D, sometimes known as ‘winter depression’ affects three in one hundred UK adults every year. Scientists can’t quite make their minds up as to the cause. Most believe seasonal changes, like less sunlight and shorter days, disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm. What’s that? The 24-hour body clock regulates when you feel sleepy or full of beans. If you’re wondering if you may be suffering from the seasonal affective disorder, these are the symptoms to look out for.

What are the symptoms of S.A.D?

1. Increased appetite

Reaching for the cake more than usual? It might be more than your sweet tooth. Craving heavy carbs is a common symptom of seasonal affective disorder. This is due to disrupted hormone levels, of melatonin and serotonin, which control your appetite.

2. Low mood

Can’t seem to shake the funk? You are not alone. With less sunlight and disrupted serotonin levels, those suffering from seasonal affective disorder experience a consistently flat, low mood during the winter months.

3. Can’t concentrate

Been staring at the screen for an hour and got nothing done? Don’t worry this is a common symptom of seasonal affective disorder. One reason for this is your sleeping patterns are out of sync. Without regular, deep sleep, your brain finds it harder to function…no matter how many cups of coffee you drink!

4. Extra sleepy

Speaking of sleep, are you finding you’re nodding off more than usual? Those darker mornings are to blame. Melatonin, which makes you feel sleepy, responds to darkness. This is why eye masks are a great way to help you get so sleep. In winter melatonin production increases, if you’re experiencing S.A.D you can feel constantly tired throughout the day.

5. Less joy

Life feels less sparkly when you are suffering from S.A.D. If you have lost the bounce in your step, the whistle in your walk, and are regularly waking up without your smile, don’t worry! We have some natural ways to have you embracing Autumn and feeling better.

Natural mood boosters to ease S.A.D

1. Let the light in

Make the most of the reduced sunlight by getting outside as much as you can throughout the day. Wrap up warm and take yourself to the park. Autumn is a beautiful time of year. Crunchy golden leaves, orange skies, and crisp fresh air get out there and enjoy it.

Make a daily stroll part of your routine- doctor’s orders.

2. Indulge in a bubble bath

Upping your self-care routine is a beauty-boosting way to combat seasonal affective disorder. Sink into a hot bath of scrummy bubbles with your favourite candle. Then wrap up in one of our fluffy towels and pop on your PJ’s!

Self-care is essential… every single day.

3. Nature therapy

It can be tough to get outside when it’s cold and dark, so why not bring the outside in? House plants, flowers, and natural products are an easy way to boost your well-being without leaving the sofa. We love nature which is why our award-winning snuggly bedding and homeware are made with wonder plant bamboo.

We think bamboo is pretty wonderful… just like you.

4. Is it bedtime yet?

Sticking to a regular sleeping pattern is a dreamy way to ease symptoms of seasonal affective disorder. Tuck in at the same time every night and try not to press snooze… even on the weekends. Make bedtime the best time with our oh-so-soft bamboo bedding.

Slip-on a slinky bamboo eye mask and make the most of every wink.

5. End the day on a sweet note

(Not the cake!) Make a note to yourself at the end of each day of all the things you have to be grateful for. Research has long shown the mood-boosting magic of gratitude. Give it a go…it will help you relish your experiences and bring a sense of awe to your day. The perfect way to combat seasonal affective disorder.

Gratitude is the best attitude!

Above all be kind to yourself, it’s ok to not feel like a superhero every day. Enjoy cosy nights at home and take it easy. Sunshine is a state of mind and just like summer, with a little TLC….your smile will be back!