A holistic guide to help prevent seasonal affective disorder

Alleviate seasonal depression naturally

So many of my patients have been talking about how they are feeling the effects of winter and are starting to feel less energetic as the temperature drops and sunlight hours are limited. Here are some tips on preventing seasonal affective disorder or in general just helping you feel more energized this yin time of year.

1: Sunlight and SAD lamps

Get as much exposure to sunlight as possible while it's out. This helps your body produce serotonin, the feel-good neurotransmitter. If you live in a climate that tends to be gloomy in the winter then invest in a sad lamp. This lamp mimics sunlight, keeping your circadian rhythm dancing in tune with the seasons.

2.  Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine

Acupuncture benefits seasonal depression by boosting both serotonin and dopamine levels and balancing hormones. Chinese herbal formulas smay also be incorporated to complement these effects in a holistic approach to managing seasonal depression. We have several herbal formulas that can help nourish your heart, boost qi, yang and move qi depending on what your particular imbalances are. Book an appointment with us to have the perfect herbal fo

3: Fuel Your Gut with Probiotics & Fermented Foods

A well-balanced microbiome, with a diverse community of beneficial gut bacteria, has been linked to improved mental health and may play a role in preventing seasonal depression by supporting a harmonious gut-brain axis and influencing neurotransmitter production

4: Indulge in Infrared Saunas

Heat up your wellness routine! Infrared saunas not only warm your body and speed up your metabolism but also release endorphins, those natural mood elevators. It's like a joyous escape from the winter chill!

5: Step up your Omega-3, vitamin D, and B vitamin intake

Omega-3s, contribute to brain health and may help regulate mood. Adequate vitamin D levels are linked to improved mental well-being, while B vitamins, especially B6 and B12, play a role in neurotransmitter synthesis, potentially alleviating depressive symptoms. Including sources of these nutrients in one's diet or through supplements can be beneficial in supporting mental health during seasons with reduced sunlight.

6: Boost Protein especially foods high in tyrosine and tryptophan

Foods rich in tyrosine and tryptophan, such as turkey, chicken, dairy products, nuts, seeds, and bananas, can aid in preventing seasonal depression by boosting the production of dopamine and serotonin, neurotransmitters that play crucial roles in mood regulation and overall mental well-being

Need help managing your seasonal blues? Book an appointmentwith us to incorporate acupuncture and herbal medicine into your self care routine to help beat those winter blues once and for all!