Winter Blues + TCM

In Chinese Medicine, we pay close attention to the way the seasons impact our health, as our bodies and minds reflect the world around us. This time of year can bring up emotional issues, such as depression, fatigue, or lack of motivation. The change of seasons can trigger “seasonal depression” or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which are depressive symptoms that show up at the same time each year. This can occur when days are shorter and less sunlight is present. If you tend to feel down this time of year, we can help!


Our Top Tips:

1. Eat warm, nourishing food: The winter months are hard on our bodies as it is, whether it be cold temperatures, dryness, seasonal depression, or daylight savings fatigue, we owe it ourselves to nourish our insides with easily digestible, warming foods.

2. Get some sun, especially in the morning: Sunlight in the morning can help align the brain and body to your circadian rhythm. If possible, sit near the window during the day or head outside for an afternoon break to soak up the sun.

3. Focus on sleep: Adjust your bedtime as necessary. Create an evening routine that helps you feel calm and relaxed. Here are some examples that have been proven to have great success - doing restorative yoga, meditating, stretching, massaging feet or abdomen with oil, diffusing essential oils, taking a warm shower/bath, journaling, reading.

4. Try Acupuncture: Helps increase serotonin, combat fatigue, help regulate emotions and ease any associated symptoms. Points along the scalp and ear are especially powerful to promote mental clarity and treat mood disorders, while points on the feet grounds an anxious mind. Some points, like Yin Tang, can help the body adjust to the circadian rhythms of the season, which includes time changes and lack of daylight.


Book your appointment online or call us at (843) 937-6890 to schedule!