It’s Tennessee, so we all know the weather can change quickly and dramatically from day to day. In a span of a week’s time we had all the seasons, apparently monsoon season is our newest one. When the weather outside is terrible, it is not surprising that it will affect your mood as well. Seasonal Affective Depression Disorder (SADD) is the one most people think of but you don’t have to have this to feel down during poor weather. When it rains for days or the sun hasn’t come out in weeks or it’s so cold you don’t want to even leave your house, we tend to become isolated. We don’t go out as much, we don’t see friends, we avoid things and are less likely to engage in activities that make us feel good in preference for binging on Netflix and sleeping in. There are ways to help combat the weather blues and get through the lows.
Find ways to keep active. You don’t have to go outside to exercise or stay active. Find ways to get active at home. Maybe it’s chasing your kid around the house, or playing with your dog, or dancing to your favorite song on the radio. Movement will boost your energy and release lots of good chemicals into your system.
Find a new hobby. Always wanted to learn to draw or cook but didn’t have the time? Well, if you are stuck at home— it might be the time to try! It can be as easy as searching for a new recipe online or watching a how-to video on youtube. Get creative.
Stay hydrated. Water is so important to functioning well. We need it to feel good. Our bodies need it to work well. Don’t forget to drink water (not just soda and coffee).
Get some vitamin D! Sunshine is the natural way of getting this but if the weather won’t cooperate with us, sometimes you need to find other sources. Fresh fruits, juices, supplements… they can help us get what we need even if the sun doesn’t come out.
Treat yourself. Do something nice for you. A long warm bath. Lighting your favorite candle. Making cookies. Do something that makes you feel good. It’s important to self care.
