12/11/2025
How I Plan On Beating The Winter Blues
Inspired by latest podcast episode 💫
2. Light Therapy
☀️Use a 10,000-lux light box for ~30 minutes each morning (within the first hour of waking- I have the Verilux HappyLight).
Why it works: Reduced daylight in fall/winter is a major trigger for low mood/winter-pattern depression (aka Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD). According to the National Institute of Mental Health, light therapy — where you sit in front of a bright 10,000 lux light box daily for ~30-45 minutes — is a first-line treatment for winter-pattern SAD.
2. Movement / Exercise
🏃🏽♀️Commit to at least 20-30 minutes of movement most days (could be a brisk walk, indoor strength circuit, yoga flow) to get those feel-good hormones flowing.
Why it works: Exercise triggers release of endorphins, dopamine, serotonin, and other neurotransmitters linked to mood and well-being.
3. Nutrition (Whole Foods + Key Micronutrients)
🍽️ Focus on nutrient-dense meals: plenty of high-quality protein, fibre-rich vegetables, healthy fats, whole grains/legumes; avoid long low-energy/low-nutrient spells.
4. Supplements and Lab Testing
👩🏽⚕️– Vitamin D: Get my 25(OH)D level tested, and supplement if below optimal (especially given our northern latitude).
– Iron & B12: Test ferritin, iron panel, B12 since deficiency contributes to fatigue, low mood.
– Saffron supplement: Consider a standardized saffron extract (under ND supervision) as an adjunct for mood during dark months.
Why it works:
– Vitamin D: Deficiency linked to increased depression/anxiety; vitamin D acts on serotonin synthesis, and circadian rhythm regulation.
– B12/Iron/other micronutrients: Low levels can intensify the “winter blahs”.
– Saffron: Studies have found that saffron supplementation can significantly reduce depression symptoms.
1. R & R
Take time for yourself to recharge. Holiday movies, binge watching your favourite series, baking, hot cocoa, extra sleep, face masks, whatever fills your cup.
If your struggling with low mood, low energy or just want to feel that spark again, I’d love to help !
Message me 💬 and we’ll get you on the path to feeling your best again ✨