Leaves are falling, the day gets shorter and we are trying to adjust to the weather changes. Luckily it is still relatively hot and sunny but the truth is that we are going straight towards winter.
From beaches and sand, now we are dreaming of fireplaces and heaters. From watermelons and ice creams, now we are talking about chestnuts and soups.
We might accept the season changing more quickly as we get older, but that doesn’t mean the end of the winter’s sweet melancholy.
Sweet November then is somewhere in the middle. Not exactly autumn but neither completely winter. After all, every change needs a transitional period, at which people take the time and space to get ready physically and mentally.
What causes the winter sadness?
It is caused by the lack of light and sun. Light and sun help in two important hormones: melatonin and serotonin. These hormones are necessary for our well-being and good mood. During winter, since there is not enough light, people tend to feel tired and be in a bad mood. Unfortunately, 80% of these people are women.
The symptoms of this sadness are sleeping disorder, not appetite or a great desire for sweets and carbs. There is no mood for socializing so we end up in no personal contact and lastly, as I mentioned before, in a bad mood and tiredness.
How do we deal with these symptoms?
First of all, it would be great if we have a sleeping routine. That is to wake up and go to sleep at a specific time, as often as possible. Have a coffee with friends by a fireplace or have comfort food with good company. In case there are no friends or maybe our friends are in the same “weird” mood, how about starting a new hobby? In that way we will have the chance to meet people with the same interests.
We switch off the television, especially during the news. Clearly it is important to get informed about what is going on around the world, especially nowadays, but we don’t have to do it all day. We can set a specific hour to watch the news.
Another way to “combat” this melancholy is exercise. I am not saying all of a sudden to climb Mount Olympus, but we can start with a mild type of exercise. We choose one that is close to our temperament and we dedicate ten minutes, three times a day.
Sun is our best friend, so whenever there is a chance we should devour it, at the balcony of the house, at a park or even from the office’s window. We must keep these hormones at a good level.
Then we continue with a good diet and in case the symptoms don’t lessen don’t be ashamed to ask for medical help. There is a chance to be something more serious than just melancholy, such as a Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Finally, we should laugh.
We should find reasons for a good laugh, from watching funny videos and memes on youtube to playing board games with friends.
After all, laughter not only boosts our mood but it exercises us too.
