Seasonal Self-care
In our ever-changing climate, the change in season is one solid constant that we can acknowledge and depend on.
Most of us are affected by this change to varying degrees from feeling a little less like ourselves, to a potential diagnosis of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) from a GP.
However, while we can be mindful that the leaves falling from the trees teaches us the beauty and importance of ‘letting go” – we are also faced with less sunlight and longer evenings.
Less exposure to general sunlight during this change into Autumn and throughout Winter can play a big role in the hormones we produce, affecting how we then come to feel during this period.
For more information on how the reduction of sunlight can affect us take a look at the NHS website.
Some tips to help adjust to the new season:
Movement
The link between movement and the production of mood-boosting hormones is well documented. It is especially important to have a movement routine during these darker months.
Gentle movement, stretching, breathing – however it feels best for you is enough – something small daily.
Natural daylight
Getting as much exposure to natural daylight as possible can lessen the impact on our circadian rhythm, helping to maintain natural balance and support our body clock.
You might want to explore the option of taking an additional Vitamin D supplement, as advised by the Department of Health & Social Care.
Limit your exposure to blue light – which is emitted from our phones, computer and TV screens – be particularly mindful of this in the hours leading up to your bedtime.
Manage your stress
We are delighted to announce that our wonderful volunteer, Katharine has so kindly agreed to continue our Sunday Sanctuary. Katharine welcomes us into a new week every Sunday evening – helping us find a moment to savour during our time spent together via Zoom. We’d love to encourage you to join us for these short, welcoming sessions that are completely free, and pressure-free. Email sarah@hectorshouse.org.uk if you’d like to know more.
Monitor your consumption of the news – continually being bombarded with real-time events and situations can make us feel stressed out – it can have a negative impact on our overall well-being. Managing when you choose to read or listen to the news, can help you feel more in control. You have the power to decide a time you feel you have the mental capacity to cope with the news.
Savour and gratitude
Choosing to find a moment to savour in our hectic schedules can thwart our mind from wandering and bring us back into the present moment. Find something small and simple to savour – for example, how pleasant your first sip of your morning coffee is, or how pleased your four-legged friend is to see you, provides a welcome moment of joy.
You are not alone in how you feel during this transition and it is okay if you feel the change of season has an impact on you. Please contact your GP if you feel a significant change in your mood during this time.
You can Text HECTOR to 85258, our trained volunteers are on-hand to talk.
