Autumn officially begins on September 22nd and while some of us are excited for fireworks, pumpkin spiced lattes and cozy nights in, others dread on the onset of darker days. When autumn arrives it’s easy for the lack of sunlight to get you down. Some people suffer from SAD, a form of depression that occurs primarily in the winter months, while others can just get a bad case of the ‘winter blues’. Either way there are plenty of things you can do to tackle these feelings of discontent when dreary weather comes around. Read on to find out our top four tips for how to handle the arrival of autumn.
Go outside
While it might not be clear blue skies and warm temperatures outside, if you’re feeling low push yourself to venture outdoors anyway. Head outside within two hours of waking up and enjoy what ever sunlight you can. An early morning stroll will not only make you realise that autumn mornings aren’t that bad, but will help you feel more hopeful. Spending time outside is proven to have a positive impact on your mood.
Break a sweat
Exercise is always a good idea when you’re feeling down, as it’s one of the easiest ways to help relieve feelings of anxiety and depression. Moving your body, be that with a yoga class, morning jog or weightlifting session will boost neural growth as well as release endorphins, chemicals that will leave you with a pleasant feeling.
Get a massage
Treating yourself when you’re having a bad day can instantly make you feel better. If you wake up and see it’s all doom and gloom outside, stay in the comfort of your home and have a mobile Urban Massage come to you instead. A relaxing massage may be just what you need to calm your nervous system and leave you feeling more positive.
Eat well
What you eat greatly affects how you feel, so be sure to fill your plate with complex carbohydrates that can help you maintain healthy levels of serotonin, which regulates your mood. Omega-3 fatty acids have also been proven to reduce symptoms of depression, so if you’re feeling down stock up on cold water fish like salmon, mackerel and sardines. If you’re plant-based try eating walnuts, seaweed or taking a teaspoon of flaxseed oil a day.