Monday, 23 September 2024
As we head into the darker days of autumn, it’s easy to find that your mood starts to drop. We look at how to get over the summertime blues...
Some psychologists suggest that the end of summer brings with it a dopamine crash as the changing season signals the end to fun activities. Many of us are focused on returning to work or getting the kids settled back at school. Shorter days also means less daylight, and most people in the UK are affected by the changing seasons in some way. As the weather cools and deteriorates, it’s easy to become less active and comfort eat.
Do you have Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?
According to the NHS, one in 15 people are affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder. Commonly known as ‘SAD’, this can make people feel low or depressed, especially between September and April. SAD sufferers typically experience low energy levels or changes to eating or sleeping patterns. SAD is different to simply reacting to the changing seasons, as the associated feelings can have a big impact on someone’s everyday life.
Whether you’re suffering from SAD or the summer blues, there are some simple things you can do to improve your mood. Let’s look at some practical hints and tips…
Tips for dealing with SAD at home
Below are some tips to help you improve your wellbeing:
- Stay healthy. Top up your vitamin D to offset the lack of daylight. Eat well, stay hydrated, and stick to a regular sleeping routine. Try to get out for a walk during daylight and take pleasure in seeing the changing autumnal colours of leaf fall. Exercise will not only make you fitter, but it’ll help you both feel and sleep better too.
- Look at the changing season as your opportunity to begin a new chapter. In the UK autumn coincides with the start of the academic year, heralding fresh starts and new learnings. List all the things that make your heart sing, for example, this could be family time, creative hobbies or planning holidays. Once you find a sense of purpose and meaning, you will feel more motivated, and your mood should lift too.
- Avoid ‘sunshine guilt’ – this trending phrase relates to all the regrets associated with summer, such as the things you wished you’d done. Instead, use your energy to organise some fun activities you can do over the coming months. This will trigger the feel-good hormone, dopamine, which will make you feel more positive.
- Maximise natural light in your home. Replace heavy curtains with lighter blinds and use reflective surfaces like mirrors or glasses. More exposure to daylight means more serotonin is produced, which helps to lift your mood. Go for a 15-minute walk in the morning to increase your exposure to sunlight.
- Use light therapy bulbs and boxes to mimic natural daylight. The general recommendation is to sit around 30 – 60 cm away from a 10,000-lux light box. If you work from home, move your desk so you can sit near a window. If you can’t get outside, being seated next to a source of daylight will help.
Create a cosy haven at home
By making your home environment autumn-ready, you can beat the summertime blues and relax on a cold, grey day. We’ve put together a list of ways to create a cosy haven:
- Change your décor scheme - pale walls help to reflect natural light, so freshen up paintwork with a lighter colour or add a new wallcovering. If the space feels too cool, add a pop of colour with a bright accessory or furnishing. Choose a vibrant accent colour that ties in with an element within the room, such as a cushion, throw or rug.
- Redesign your home – look at the current layout around your home and consider how you can enhance different spaces. Move your favourite armchair or home office chair closer to a window. By rearranging the furniture, you can add a fresh perspective on a tired room. Affix an inspiring piece of artwork to an empty wall.
- Upgrade your furniture – if your furniture is a bit worn out, then consider replacing with more comfortable items. There are different types of recliner chair that can offer superior comfort when you need to rest after a long and tiring day. Did you know that you can now buy a reclining sofa too?
When autumn arrives, it can be difficult to get motivated during the cooler, darker days. But whether you’re sad because it’s the end of summer or you suffer with SAD, a few changes can make a big difference. Focus on the things that you know will help you improve your wellbeing. And make sure your home offers a cosy haven, so you can relax and unwind.
Need to upgrade your furniture? Get inspired by our comfy armchairs and sofas. For advice, speak to our friendly customer service team or use our online web chat tool.
