Getting out of bed can be downright impossible during winter months as the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) trigger feelings of depression and disinterest for many women.
The clinical suggestions for treating SAD are phototherapy (light therapy), medication, and psychotherapy — however, some find they need more coping strategies and prompts to make it through winter.
Here are five ways to further light a fire under your endorphins:
#1 - Let the light in.
Manage the illumination in your room and consider a handy light timer. On days when you’re feeling especially weary, the timer will kick in and brighten up your room before the sun has risen to do the job for you.
Open blinds to get as much light in as you can and consider swapping out your lightbulbs.
GE has sunlight light bulbs that omit a limited amount of blue light and closely replicate natural sunlight.
#2 - Recruit a “text boost” buddy.
We all have that friend. The one that’s allowed to text you at all hours of the day and night with no judgment? Honestly discuss your struggles with them and put into action a plan to send one humorous meme or one motivating meme each morning. Simply knowing someone is thinking about you could be enough to put a little smile on your face, and hopefully, ease you out of bed.
#3 - Don't hit snooze, hit diffuse.
Place a small essential oil diffuser next to your alarm and when you hit snooze, activate the aromatherapy to rouse your senses and hopefully bring you up and out of your warm blankets. Citrus-y oils offer a fresh and rejuvenating scent that hits the olfactory sensors which then send a message to the brain’s limbic system (emotions and memory) and the neo-cortex (conscious thought, language).
If a fruity scent is not your cup of tea, Idaho balsam fur, peppermint, bergamot, and rosemary aromas can also give you an energy boost.
Mion Artisan Soap Co. in St. Charles carries a variety of essential oils and pre-blended rollers for your desired mood like Mood Booster and Energy & Alertness.
#4 - Get your blood flowing.
Several members in our household lack the early bird gene, so in an attempt to get everyone up and at ’em, I often result in a quick morning mini-massage. We’re hard-wired to want touch, plus it’s a wonderful way to communicate with one another — a gentle touch is a nice “I love you” to start your day off right or get you re-motivated to tackle a task mid-day.
Don’t have any roommates? Invite a furry cat or dog into your life by way of your local animal shelter. They give the BEST morning hugs, snuggles, and kisses.
#5 - Do yoga in bed.
Instead of checking email or scrolling before you get up, try some stretches. Tara Stiles (an Illinois native!) is fantastic about guiding you through simple poses without the expectation of perfection. This easy morning practice is only six minutes long and includes twists, deep breathing, and stretches that gently bring you out of your sleepy state and out of bed.
Need more suggestions? Email me at themoderndomesticwoman@gmail.com
About the author:
Elizabeth Rago is a mama, wife, and the creator of The Modern Domestic Woman (MDW).
Starting with silly beginnings writing about home decor and DIY projects, Elizabeth found MDW to be a happy distraction from her stressful life.
After a series of unfortunate events including job loss, a car accident, bankruptcy, and a physical and emotional breakdown, Elizabeth felt compelled to shift the primary focus of MDW from pretty pictures and goofy memes to a space of honest support for the modern woman.
Learn more about Elizabeth at MDWcares.com