It is that time of the year when the days are cold, and the sunsets before most of us even get out of work for the day. Often during the fall and winter seasons, people may experience sadness, tiredness, and change of appetite. Or, they may just feel “down” and don’t know what’s causing it.

The cause of these symptoms is commonly known as a seasonal affective disorder or SAD, also sometimes referred to as seasonal affective depression. SAD is defined by the Cleveland Clinic as, “a depression that occurs each year at the same time, usually starting in fall, worsening in winter, and ending in spring.”

According to the Cleveland Clinic, around 500,000 people in the U.S. suffer from SAD. Although we cannot help that the seasons change, there are things we can do to help our bodies and minds adjust during this time!
 

Massages

People suffering from depression often get massages to relieve stress and tension in the body. Massages are known to help sleeping patterns, mood, and appetite. When suffering from SAD, massages can help improve energy levels and reset circadian rhythms, which helps regulate the sleep cycle.

We have a great massage therapist who works in the office I share in Fayetteville and I highly recommend you make an appointment with her or another nearby massage therapist. Even though they are very helpful throughout any season, massages aren’t the only way to combat the seasonal affective disorder.
 

Chiropractic care

Getting adjusted can help your body release tension in your neck and back but can also release endorphins that can help improve your mood. Having an aligned back can help decrease irritability and irregular sleep patterns.

It is always important to keep your body and back healthy, but especially during this time because it will help you fight that tiredness and those feelings of sadness.
 

Getting sunlight

Sunlight helps produce and release serotonin and melatonin, which your body may be lacking during these dreary and cold winter days. Adequate Vitamin D is also important for your mood and we get a good dose of that from natural sunlight. '
 

Exercise regularly

Exercise is good all year long, but the released endorphins help your mood and keep your body functioning well. If you are spending less time outside because of the low temperatures, try yoga or even stretching to help get your blood flowing and endorphins running.
 

Healthy nutrition

Finally, eating healthy foods will help your body get the nutrients it needs to have energy and will protect your immune system. '
 

Let me help!

As someone who often lives with seasonal affective disorder, I know how important it is to feel better. Make an appointment today and we can discuss treatment options including regular adjustments and a nutrition plan.