In the past, seasonal change reminded us of different seasonal work, such as planting crops in spring and summer, harvesting in autumn, and storing food in winter. Those days weren’t special but people felt stable and rich in their hearts. Now the society has changed, many jobs that don’t require too much physical work. The era of technology and the blessing of electronic products have made our lives more convenient but gradually create distance between people. The time people spend alone is longer and more worries that are different from the past.
Seasonal changes can affect our moods?
Do you know that a person’s mental state is affected by seasonal changes? Research has shown that our bodies perceive seasonal changes more quickly. Since the rise and setting of the sun have a strong relationship with our circadian rhythm (body clock), seasonal changes in this can disrupt one’s hormone levels. Less sunlight can cause serotonin levels to drop which affects mood and changes in the amount of sunlight can also affect melatonin levels which affect sleep patterns.
What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?
SAD, or Seasonal Affective Disorder, as the name suggests, is a seasonal condition that occurs either during the fall and winter months or in the summer season. Winter symptoms lean more toward increased appetite, weight gain, and tiredness versus spring symptoms that include agitation, insomnia, and anxiety.
*you are more likely to be diagnosed with SAD if you’ve been experiencing these moods changes and symptoms for at least three seasons in a row. Always consult your doctor before starting any treatment.
Taking a self-examination is no harm. If you feel that you are experiencing the following symptoms, it may mean that the seasonal changes are affecting you.
Fall and Winter Symptoms:
Mood swings- Weight gain
- Difficulty in concentrating
- Increased urge to sleep and low energy
- Recurring suicidal thoughts
- Feeling depressed
- Lack of interest in activities you normally enjoy
Summer Symptoms:
- Difficulty in sleeping
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Anxiety
Alleviate the discomfort of seasonal changes
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Enjoy the sun
Sunlight is the most effective way to alleviate discomfort of seasonal changes and helps our brains produce the right neurotransmitters. Make the most of the sun throughout the colder months and absorbing adequate amounts of Vitamin D greatly contributes to your overall health and well being. Even if you are an indoor worker, consciously find short windows of time to take a 10-15 minute walk at various times. Look for brief moments during your day to bundle up and escape to the sun. Feel the natural light through your eyelids,You will be surprised by the healing effect. Going out to move the muscles and bones also has benefits to the body.
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Time for a winter break
If the winter sunshine where you live is not quite enough to give you the boost you need, it could be the perfect time for a holiday. Break your winter routine, escape to the tropics and get a good dose of sunshine to heal your body and mind.
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Brighten up your living space.
Open your window shades and let the brightness in. You can also move your workspace near a window where it is much brighter for inspiring warm sunlight.
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Less drinking and more exercise
Drinking alcohol may add to your sulky mood, try to avoid or reduce the alcohol consumption. Instead, increase the amount of exercise, cultivate exercise habits, Being more active can decrease anxiety and stress.
Seasonal change for Interior space
Each season has its own unique beauty. We can change the seasons for your space and your mood through simple home renovations. Here are the 2 key points for an idea!
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Change different texture items
Just like the clothes you wear every day will change with the seasons, the home furnishings and accessories should also change with the seasons. Especially fabrics such as pillows, blankets or carpets that are in direct contact with the skin. Although there are many items that can be used all year round, the touch, texture, and feeling of different fabrics are different. For example, linen or cool-sensing materials are suitable for summer. And wool or suede materials with warm thickness are more cozy for winter.
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Detachable classic items
Of course, your favorite items can be used all year round. Occasionally, you can easily create a sense of seasonal changes by using detachable but timeless items for key replacements. Like pillows, tablecloths, curtains, lamps and rugs, these easy-to-replace items are good choices for changing the style of a space. Different patterns and colors match the seasons to change the look of your home and make a fresh mood.
Read more: A variety of window treatment. How would you choose?
Change your home into a different style sometimes, add freshness to your life and make waking up every day a kind of expectation.
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