02/10/2025
đ TIS THE SEASON
I know most people dread this time of year. The darker nights, the weather, the sheer lack of sunshine. But for me, autumn and winter are my favourites. Twinkly lights, listening to the rain wrapped in a blanket, big jumpers, hibernation mode, my birthday, Halloween and Christmas, all the things that make me feel cosy and alive in a different way.
But if youâre one of the many people who feels the slump creeping in, itâs worth remembering this: weâre mammals. We are meant to slow down right now. To sleep more. To eat more grounding food. To nurture our roots so weâre strong enough to bear fruit come spring.
Think of a tree in winter. It doesnât waste energy forcing out leaves when the light and warmth arenât there to support it. Instead, it builds stability in its roots, anchoring deeper into the ground, so when spring rolls around, it has the strength to blossom again. Weâre no different.
Some ways to survive (and even thrive) through winter if Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is biting:
⨠Light therapy lamps â these mimic daylight and can help balance the body clock and boost serotonin. I know people who swear by them.
⨠Cosy up your environment â make your home somewhere you want to be. Soft blankets, candles, fairy lights, your favourite mug.
⨠Movement (but gentle) â walks in daylight hours if you can, yoga, or even a dance around the kitchen. It doesnât need to be hardcore.
⨠Nutrition that grounds you â warm soups, slow-cooked meals, foods that feel like a hug.
⨠Rest unapologetically â youâre not lazy; youâre seasonal. Animals hibernate for a reason.
⨠Connection â it can feel easy to isolate, but even one warm chat with a friend can change the tone of a whole day.
If this time of year feels heavy for you, please know youâre not broken. Youâre seasonal, like the rest of us. And your roots might be quietly growing stronger right now, ready for the next season of bloom. đą
T
