Let’s talk about feeling good. Waking up fresh each morning ready to seize the day with a smile on your face! It’s what we all desire and deserve; so why is it that some days we just ain’t feeling it?
It’s this time of year when the sun sets early, the temperature plummets, and we slink indoors to seek warmth and comfort that many people experience a type of “winter blues” known as Seasonal Affective Disorder – with the apt acronym SAD.
Characterised by unexplainable gloominess, insomnia, irritability, low energy and carbohydrate cravings, SAD is caused by the decreased sunlight hours leading to changes in two of our brain chemicals, serotonin and melatonin.
If this sounds like you (or someone you know…) there is some good news. Specific herbs, nutrients and small lifestyle changes can effectively manage this condition.
At the Raglan Herbal Dispensary, we have our specially formulated liquid herbal blends Uplift Tonic, Be Calm, and Sweet Dreams that contain different combinations of balancing, calming and restorative herbs to address the symptoms and causes of SAD.
Our Organic Herbal Tea range offers the delightfully named blend of Sunshine Tea – to totally brighten your day, Deep Sleep Tea – the name says it all, or our Resilience Tea – for the SAD sufferer or their housemates!
Key herbs used in our tonics and teas include Withania (Ashwaganda), St Johns Wort, Oats, Chamomile, Lemon Balm, Californian Poppy, Passionflower, Skullcap and Saffron – all valued for their mood enhancing and soothing qualities.
Vitamin D – our bodies manufacture Vitamin D from the sunlight, so it makes sense that we are at risk of decreased levels during winter. Vitamin D deficiency is linked to depression, so is recommended also for assisting SAD. We have a range of quality Vitamin D supplements available at the dispensary.
It’s also great to get outside when the sun is shining. Try for a little while without your sunglasses on (don’t stare at the sun though…) as sunlight entering your eyes can help stimulate serotonin production.
Last but not least, remember some pampering selfcare tricks
– Your favourite essential oils in the bath or oil burner
– A scented candle to gently uplift your senses and create a calming vibe
– Get your bare feet onto the earth and into the ocean. Grounding and alkalinising
– Book a massage, infrared sauna, floatation tank session
Note: If your mood (or someone you know) is so low you are afraid or inconsolable it is important to seek immediate help from a health professional.
