Lets all talk about the elephant in the room. Living in New England can be beautiful, and a magical experience with many gorgeous views and seasons to look forward to. But for some, it can also bring cloudy days both physically and mentally, especially after the holidays. Seasonal depression is a real thing, and it affects so many of us. Every January after the holidays end, the pressure of life and "new goals" really starts to weigh in. The cold is here to stay for a few more months and the sun hides a bit more. There are some days that it can be hard to even get out of bed and function. I am one of many people that is challenged by this every year. So, this weeks post is dedicated to us! I see you, I feel you, and I hear you. You are not alone! Be easy on yourself, you're doing great. Below you will find some of the best things on the market to help boost your moods and cheer you up even on the cloudiest days. I hope it helps!
Light Therapy
Research has shown that light therapy is a great way to help fight winter blues, jet lag, working night shift, helps with sleep disorders and overall helps with boosting energy. The best time to use this would be first thing in the morning for 30 minutes. Set is up by your bed, or while you sit down for breakfast.
A light therapy box mimics outdoor light. It's thought that this type of light may cause a chemical change in the brain that lifts your mood and eases other symptoms of SAD, such as being tired most of the time and sleeping too much.
Typical recommendations when using the light box:
Within the first hour of waking up in the morning
For about 20 to 30 minutes
About 16 to 24 inches (41 to 61 centimeters) from your face, but follow the manufacturer's instructions about distance
With eyes open, but not looking directly at the light
Meditation
I have been trying to create space to meditate at least twice a week, but my goal is to do it even more than that because I feel SO much better when I do. Many people have heard how wonderful meditation can be to help with so many things in your life. Depression and anxiety are two of many different ailments that meditation can help ease. Meditation may seem somewhat counterintuitive, since it involves increasing awareness around thoughts and experiences. But meditation teaches you to pay attention to thoughts and feelings without passing judgment or criticizing yourself. You’ve probably heard exercise helps relieve depression symptoms. While there’s certainly research to support that finding, a 2017 study of 181 nursing students found evidence to suggest meditation could have even more benefit for managing depression.
Meditation can be really tricky to get in the mindset to do. My suggestion is to get your AirPods on to help block out any noise that may distract your mind and follow a guided meditation. If you don't have headphones, find yourself a nice and quiet space (maybe a warm bath with Epsom salts) grab your cellphone (put it on silent) and download the Calm App for a guided meditation. Below is a very small speaker I recently got that has many different white noise settings. Not only is it super relaxing to listen to when meditating, but I highly recommend it for going to bed. Both machines listed below I have at home in at the shop. Clients absolutely LOVE the northern lights machine that has Bluetooth and white noise options, the lights are stunning for meditation and relaxing.
White Noise Machine
20 Non-Looping Sleep Sounds: White noise, Brown noise, pink noise, blue noise, fan, brook, rain, ocean, bird and Bonfire. Suitable for a Baby, Kids and Adults.
Precise Volume & Timer Settings:With 32 Levels of Volume.And you can set 1 hour, 2 hours, 3 hours, 4 hours, 5 hours or continuous play.
Unique Design: Solid-state design with 6.3 inch*4 inch *2.4 inch, it is portable for home, office or travel, can give you a perfect sleep.
Northern Lights Light
Upgraded 3 in 1 Star Projector Night Light - This star projector for bedroom has been upgraded to 3 in 1 version of aurora projector, Bluetooth speaker and white noise machine. It now features dual projection lens, able to project northern lights effect with 16 colors and lively star lights skies to create a relaxing atmosphere with soothing music, bringing you to enjoy the beauty of nature. Transform your living room into a beautiful and romantic gateway with peaceful moving lights.
8 natural sounds
Starry lamp
Bluetooth
Remote control
Voice control mode
Automatic timer
Supplements
Are you someone looking for an all natural alternative? I have recommended these to friends and have personally tried them, with amazing experience. This is a great all natural supplement to help with overall anxiety, depression, relieves tension both physically and mentally and will boost your mood overall. Read the reviews for yourself! I highly recommend them!!
Joy-Filled Mood Support Supplement
Joy-Filled is a plant-based dietary supplement that helps to relieve worried thoughts, feelings of low mood, and tension. Each herb included has been formulated with YOU in mind:
RHODIOLA ROSEA - This golden flowering plant contains bioactive chemicals that support a healthy response to external & internal stimuli by decreasing cortisol in the body.
ST. JOHN'S WORT - St. John's Wort works to increase the availability of key neurotransmitters in the brain that helps to regulate mood, which are crucial components in maintaining a positive state of mind.
LEMON BALM LEAF - This plant helps reduce nervousness, restlessness, and promotes an overall calming effect.
GINGKO BILOBA - The leaves from the Gingko Biloba tree contain a counteractive effect on adrenaline, which alleviates the mind and body of tension.
ASHWAGANDHA - Known for its use in Ayurvedic healing, Ashwagandha has been used to reduce physical, emotional, and mental tension by supporting the "fight or flight" response system of the body.
GOTU KOLA - Gotu Kola is regarded as one of the most rejuvenating herbs in Ayurvedic Medicine. It boosts cognitive function and ultimately helps you maintain a stable and positive mood.
ELEUTHERO - This herb helps the body to better utilize energy by reducing mental and physical fatigue.
Happy Healthy Hippie BE Grounded Stress Relief Supplement
30 Quick Minutes to Deflate the Pressure & Smile
Meticulously formulated based on science, from the ideal hand-selected blend of calming herbs, this is the stress relief supplement to take when you’re ready to bliss out on life’s happiness, without feeling groggy, sleepy or numb.
Lemon Balm: From panicky and ticked to zen-lovin’ peace. Wonderful for calming butterfly-filled tummies too.
Lavender Extract: Calm. Calmer. Calmest. Lavender does more than set the mood. It soothes your senses, effectively melting away what feels like a days worth of worries in minutes. Ahhhh, relief.
L-TeaActive L-Theanine: Nourishes your “Nervous Nellies” with fight-or-flight mitigating aminos, so you respond like a calm, cool-headed pro. Life’s got nothing on you.
Magnesium Glycinate: Promotes healthy stress support in a way that naturally augments your happiness hormone, so you feel better, vibe better, and realize just how heavenly life truly is.
How Will This Change Your Life? More Joy, Fast Acting, Be Present & Less Stress.
Spa Treatments
As you know, I own a day spa so I am a firm believer in spa treatments. Whether you come to Bliss or you live further away, I highly recommend doing more than just "treating yourself" every now and then. Think of how much our bodies do for us daily, and how hard you push yourself. Spa treatments are often thought of as a luxury but I truly believe that this is the wrong mindset. I would STRONGLY encourage you to think about a spa membership. Not only for your mental well-being but for the physical benefits many spa treatments can relieve. If you can't get in monthly, ask about spa packages or switch from 60 minute massage to a 75 or 90 minutes when you do get in for one. YOU DESERVE IT! Seriously, I mean it.
Benefits of massage include:
Improved circulation.
Decreased muscle stiffness.
Decreased joint inflammation.
Better quality of sleep.
Quicker recovery between workouts.
Improved flexibility.
Less pain and soreness.
Strengthened immune response.
Decreases/improves Stress
Decreases/improves Anxiety
Reduces irritability
Increases brain serotonin and dopamine, the combination of these effects lead to a happier individual
Benefits of Facials
Relaxation
Improves your mood & anxiety level
Reduces stress
Cleanses & Exfoliates your skin
Prevents Aging
Facial Massage Promotes Blood Circulation
Facials Help Detoxify The Skin
Treats Acne & Scarring
Eliminates Blackheads & Whiteheads
Helps Moisturize
Helps Brighten & Lighten Pigmentation
Professional Advice & Products
Essential Oils
I know what you're thinking, we all have heard about them...but have you ever tried them? The number one thing I hear the most when people walk into my spa is, "Oh my goodness, it always smells SO good in here!". Well, there is a reason for that. There are SO many wonderful benefits to essential oils. I personally love the doTERRA brand because you can ingest them. I have done a lot of research on the factors of ingesting, diffusing, and using essential oils. Top name essential oil brands are favored for a reason, they're pure and most importantly; safe. If you're interested in just trying out a few oils and not a MLM Company, the brand below is a great & safe option; Eden's Garden.
If you are placing oils directly on the skin make sure you either use a roller blend that is premixed or a carrier oil to make sure that you don't have any skin irritation.
This company states that they cannot recommend internal use just based solely on that they "do not know what medications, quantities and allergies you may have and want to be certain our customers are safe. However, many of our loyal customers use Edens Garden oils internally since they are the highest quality available, but we leave that entirely up to each customer."
My favorite blends for seasonal depression:
100% Pure Essential Oils
GC/MS tested to ensure quality, safety & effectiveness
Ethically & sustainably sourced
Women-owned and family-operated
Boosts Motivation
Increases Energy
Promotes Focus
Supports Respiratory System
Long-Lasting & Waterproof: Upgraded pomade is made with premium quality ingredients, all natural and cruelty-free. Pomade is long-lasting, waterproof, and sweatproof, so your perfect brows shine through 24/7.
Inexpensive diffuser:
2 Misting Modes
8 Colors Mood Light
Waterless Auto off
Salt Rock Lamps:
How they work: Pink salt releases negative ions to help purify and improve the air quality around you. In addition to the cleaner air theory, many believe that the ions can increase your energy level, improve your sleep and mood and even reduce allergy symptoms.
I have a story for you! I used to work at a place that had some crazy energy. Both high stress and negative energy. We had a salt lamp in one of the office spaces that a lot of that negative energy festered in, after 6 months in that space the salt rock completely corroded from salt build up! I am a firm believer in these awesome lamps. There is a reason so many spas have them in treatment rooms. I highly recommend getting yourself one of these for you bedroom!
Better air quality in your home.
Increased respiratory health.
Improved mood.
Better sleep.
Very informative. I love my salt lamp and essential oils. In fact, I love everything you’ve written and enjoy them all!