Self Care for the Dark Days of Winter

Oct 31

Feeling SAD? Here are some self care tips from a former desert-dweller for dealing with shorter days and longer nights:

This “tip” really applies all year round, but make sure you’re getting enough sleep AND rest/recovery.
Make sure you’re getting enough Vitamin D. Reach out to your doctor for blood texts and recommendations for supplementation.
Increase your intake of foods rich in Vitamin D and Omega 3.
Get light exposure early in the day. Go outside or at least sit by a bright window.
Try using light therapy with a light therapy box emitting up to 10,000 LUX.
I know Minnesotan winters can get very… brisk, but try to get outside. Take up a winter sport like cross country skiing or snowshoeing or even just bundle up for a walk around the block. Nature is healing for so many reasons. And snow can be beautiful, right…?
Stay hydrated! Winter gets very dry. As if you didn’t know that already.
Keep up a regular sleep and exercise routine. Buy an alarm clock with a “sunrise” feature if it helps get you out of bed when it’s still dark out.
Stay connected! Winter months can be very isolating so reach out to friends and family and/or get involved in your community. Studio ME is volunteering for Feed My Starving Children on November 19th, so you could join us there!
Practice gratitude. Whether it is through formal meditation or prayer, journaling, or just thinking about all the things you are grateful for every day.
Appreciate the winter for what it is: a time to cozy up. Look to our Scandinavian cousins for hygge inspiration. What is hygge? Tbh, I still can’t figure out how to pronounce it.
And if your symptoms are keeping you from living your best life, please consider counseling or even medication if needed. Make an appointment with your primary care physician to discuss options.
You can also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 any time of day. The Lifeline provides free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones. You can also text HOME to 741741 to connect with a Crisis Counselor.