Beat the Winter Blues!

Well folks, we are in the thick of it. Minnesota’s winter is in full swing. While it may be almost spring time, us Northerners know not to be too hopeful for warm weather to come early and stay. We all get a case of the blues being in this frozen tundra, but there actually is a condition called SAD, Seasonal Affective Disorder, that can influence someone’s quality of life. ​

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that happens during different seasons of the year, commonly fall and winter. The science behind it says that it is caused by a chemical reaction in the brain, due to less sunlight. Without the sunlight, your body is lacking vitamin D and serotonin. According to Mayo Clinic, some common symptoms of SAD are feeling sad and/or hopeless, sleeping more than usual or having trouble waking up, feeling tired, overeating, and socially withdrawing. If you are feeling these symptoms, talk to your doctor. 

Massage has been proven to help reduce symptoms of seasonal depression, and there are other benefits as well. Massage can counteract those physiological mood factors that come with SAD. It reduces anxiety and depression symptoms, as well as the hormones that cause anxiety. It decreases your heart rate and blood pressure. It also has been proven to lower cortisol, and releases serotonin. Massage also improves sleep and strengthens your body-mind connection. All of these factors are key to ease SAD symptoms. 

A few other ways to ease symptoms of SAD:

• Exposure to light

With the lack of sunlight being a major cause for SAD, trying to get as much exposure to light is a vital mend to restore yourself. Whether it is natural light or a light therapy lamp, subjection to light is restoring your being. 

• Getting regular exercise

Besides the other benefits of getting regular exercise, it also helps reduce symptoms of SAD. The most effective types are aerobic, strength, and gentle yoga and stretching. Getting your heart rate up and building strength and focusing on breathing and flexibility are key. 

• Eat well-balanced meals

Eating a well balanced diet is good for overall health, as well. Eating fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and grains are healthy choices. Processed foods and sugars are ok in moderation, but focusing on the main food groups are important. 

• Stay away from drugs and alcohol

Alcohol and drugs can make the symptoms of your depression worse. Most alcohols and drugs are depressors, and can heighten the feelings of depression and anxiety. Self-medicating can be a temporary fix, but it can lead to addiction and overall damage your body and self. 

• Be patient and focus on the positives

It may be easier said than done, but focusing on the positives and being patient can influence your symptoms a lot. Give yourself some time, and focus on the good that is happening. Believe it or not, your attitude can change the outlook of your circumstances. Depression is real, no doubt about it. But there is a lot to be grateful for and appreciate. 

It is important to remember that you are not the problem, and it is not your fault. Seasonal depression is a real problem that a lot of others face. You are not alone. Fear not, the end of winter is near!

At Living Touch Massage, we have your back and we want to help you. Allow us to help you destress, unwind, and restore your body and mind. 
Contact us today to get your massage!

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Beat The Blues!