As temperatures cool and days get shorter, winter can sometimes lead to “blue” feelings throughout the season. In fact, between four and six percent of Americans report that they experience symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder brought on by the change in environment.
This winter, when you’re making your holiday to-do lists and planning for family get-togethers, don’t forget to take care of yourself and give your body the support it needs to be healthy all winter long. There are several natural, easy lifestyle changes you can make this season to improve your mental and physical health. If you’re looking for ways to beat the winter blues, consider the following activities and homeopathic supplies in Poplar Bluff, MO:
- Seasonal organic produce: The food you eat has a direct impact on how your body feels and performs throughout the day. Eating a well-balanced diet that is full of seasonal, organic produce can help you stay energized, focused and upbeat. Leafy greens, vegetables and fruits can give you the vitamin boost that your body needs while natural dairy products include probiotics that can strengthen your immune system. Just make sure that the produce you buy is in season and organic to avoid ingesting pesticides, hormones or genetically modified foods.
- Vitamin supplements: Even when we eat a healthy diet, it can still be difficult to have all of the vitamins your body needs. This is especially true for the body’s daily requirements of vitamin D. This essential vitamin develops naturally in the body after exposure to sunlight, and can help improve your mood and immune system. Less daylight and fewer hours spent outdoors means winter is a major culprit for vitamin D deficiency. If you’re feeling blue, it may be because you need a vitamin D supplement to support you through the season.
- Exercise: An easy and free way to lift both your mood and your overall wellness is through regular exercise. Being active several times a week for at least 30 minutes can benefit your health in countless ways and help generate feel-good emotions. This is because exercise produces serotonin and endorphins in the brain, which are key components of happiness! Whether you are running outside or inside at the gym, exercise can help you build muscle strength, lose winter weight and maintain a positive perspective.
- Aromatherapy: Don’t be afraid to break out your aromatherapy diffuser this winter and add a few drops of mood-boosting essential oils. Aromatherapy has been used for years as natural homeopathic supplies in Poplar Bluff, MO. Essential oils such as bergamot, lavender and peppermint can elevate your outlook. Some essential oils – such as eucalyptus – even have antiviral properties that, when used properly, can boost your health.
Through these natural remedies and more, you can help to ward off tired, low feelings and embrace the brisk energy of the season. To learn more about how living naturally can benefit yours and your family’s lives, consult the knowledgeable professionals at The Bee Hive Natural Foods today.