Combat the Winter “SAD”: Tidy Up and Get Organized!
Written by - Danielle Ashley
Chances are, if you live in a climate that is not seasonably confused like that of Northwest Arkansas, you’ve already experienced a steady string of cloudy days and cold temperatures. Those of you in NWA who are still enjoying intermittent sunny and 60s, don’t get too comfortable! In a month or so, temperatures will be plummeting and those sunny days will become little more than a fond memory. While many enjoy the winter months and cozy days spent inside by the fire, an estimated 12 million Americans are affected by SAD, the oh-so-fitting acronym for Seasonal Affective Disorder. SAD is a condition often heralded in with the change in season and accompanied by symptoms such as depression, low energy, and food cravings. Although the medical world has yet to reach a true consensus about the cause of this recently recognized condition, many attribute its occurrence to physiological alterations caused by reduced sun exposure.
Alas, the weather worsens, you feel that general malaise settle in, you unconsciously (or consciously) begin to let your household chores slide so you can get extra rest…. do you realize this could be making matters worse? A study published in 2010 examined the relationship between feelings toward one’s home and mood throughout the day. Home tours with 60 spouses revealed that high stress home scores (indicated by perceived clutter and unfinished projects) were associated with suboptimal cortisol patterns and increased depressive moods. On the flip-side, those with higher restorative home scores (indicated by restful and nature-related descriptors) demonstrated normal cortisol patterns and decreased depression. Additional studies have found that messiness and clutter may negatively impact your ability to focus as well as your eating habits.
It is always nice to have some scientific evidence to prove a point, but most won’t need to see research galore to believe that a clean, tidy home supports an overall state of well-being. Have you ever found yourself envious of your host’s flawless home while attending a dinner party? Do you find it easier to relax and unwind in a nice hotel than in your own bedroom? If you’re regularly less than happy with the state of your home you probably answered “yes” to both questions, and in all likelihood it has less to do with chic wall-hangings and elegant furniture and more to do with the lack of dirt, clutter, and chaos.
Whether you are afflicted with SAD or just get the occasional case of the holiday blues, creating a harmonious living space is a great way to show self-love and look after your mental health. If you care for house guests and scramble to make the house pleasant and comfortable for them, why not do the same for yourself? Here at Tidying, our focus is on helping you clean, organize, and declutter your way to a happier and healthier home, and this is never more important than during these dreary winter months. It is only one element, however, of what should be a holistic approach to caring for yourself while the sun is on vacation. Below are a few more ways to tackle your SAD symptoms:
-
Invest in a SAD lamp. These deliver UV rays that mimic sunlight and may help restore serotonin (these suffer as sun exposure decreases). Having one of your own may brighten your mood as well as your home.
-
Regulate your sleep cycle. Disturbed sleeping patterns can impact your circadian rhythm and alter hormones involved in cognitive health and function. Try to resist the temptation to stay up too late and sleep until noon while you’re on your Christmas vacation.
-
Maintain adequate levels of Vitamin D. Decreased levels of vitamin D have been associated with depressive symptoms, and maintaining them can be a challenge during winter. Keep your levels up through supplementation and [when possible] time in the sun from 10am-2pm.
-
Regular physical activity. Exercising on a regular basis increases endorphins and other mood-boosting chemicals. Break out those workout videos or put that gym membership to use!
Hopefully this post has provided you with some insight into the reoccurring melancholy that leaves many feeling victimized by winter’s chill. Now that you know a little more about SAD and strategies to strike back, take control and take back the season. Tidying by Kimberly May is always happy to help!
Invest in a SAD lamp. These deliver UV rays that mimic sunlight and may help restore serotonin (these suffer as sun exposure decreases). Having one of your own may brighten your mood as well as your home.
Regulate your sleep cycle. Disturbed sleeping patterns can impact your circadian rhythm and alter hormones involved in cognitive health and function. Try to resist the temptation to stay up too late and sleep until noon while you’re on your Christmas vacation.
Maintain adequate levels of Vitamin D. Decreased levels of vitamin D have been associated with depressive symptoms, and maintaining them can be a challenge during winter. Keep your levels up through supplementation and [when possible] time in the sun from 10am-2pm.
Regular physical activity. Exercising on a regular basis increases endorphins and other mood-boosting chemicals. Break out those workout videos or put that gym membership to use!
x
Comments
Post a Comment