To say that it's been a bit grey and dreary out lately is a huge understatement. Even though the winter is a time for more rest and hibernation, there are many ways to stay motivated and inspired at this time of year while honouring the rhythm of the season.
I find we are experiencing a bit of sensory deprivation in January with a monochromatic landscape, no birds to listen to, and fewer options for fresh produce. If we can encourage stimulation of all the senses - sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell - our moods and spirits begin to brighten up.
Vision
Feeling blah right now is common, however, there are signs that point to depression that are good to be aware of so that you can notice them in yourself and in others. In reality, most people don't know they are depressed in the moment, so keep an observant eye on those you love.
The Vitamin D Connection
Patients appreciate understanding their numbers beyond "everything is normal". If you bring me your latest blood work we can go through it together and compare it to your past results to identify trends. Lately I'm seeing a lot of low Vitamin D, which is also sure to impact your mood and so many other health concerns. You can read more about Vitamin D here. (Update: prescription dose of Vitamin D is now above 2500IU). I am amazed at how many symptoms can improve with this intervention alone - from mood, to joint pain, to energy, to hormones.
I am hoping for some beautiful crisp, cold, sunny January days to come. In the meantime, consider the fog a chance to spend less time on what's going on in the outside world and attend more of your focus on building your own inner strength & vitality.
Warmly,
Dr. Christa
P.S. If you would like a few strategies to manage stress quickly, check out these 4 options.
Coming up
I'm planning to do our next Detox Group at the end of January or beginning of February (finished before Family Day weekend). I've also got something in the works for a more comprehensive program so watch for info coming out on that too.
Book Appointment
I find we are experiencing a bit of sensory deprivation in January with a monochromatic landscape, no birds to listen to, and fewer options for fresh produce. If we can encourage stimulation of all the senses - sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell - our moods and spirits begin to brighten up.
Vision
- colours - greenhouses, butterfly sanctuaries, wear less black clothing ;)
- watch nature shows
- look at photos from the summer
- buy fresh flowers
- admire the beauty of the season - snowflakes and frost
- envision how you would like the year to look
- music & nature sounds
- creaking trees in the forest, ice breaking under your feet
- laughter
- listen to people around us and absorb what they have to say - so many health ailments come from not having our voices heard
- seasonal fruits like oranges, pineapples
- use spices and herbs - curry, ginger, garlic, thyme, cinnamon
- herbal teas - my latest go-to is Tulsi & Ginger
- soups
- essential oils
- home cooked meals
- the freshness of cool air
- feel the warmth of a fire, ice & snow on your face
- lots of hugs
- hands on treatments - chiropractic, massage, osteo, etc.
- movement - grounding yoga poses or the burn after a workout
- textures from fuzzy blankets and cozy socks
Feeling blah right now is common, however, there are signs that point to depression that are good to be aware of so that you can notice them in yourself and in others. In reality, most people don't know they are depressed in the moment, so keep an observant eye on those you love.
The Vitamin D Connection
Patients appreciate understanding their numbers beyond "everything is normal". If you bring me your latest blood work we can go through it together and compare it to your past results to identify trends. Lately I'm seeing a lot of low Vitamin D, which is also sure to impact your mood and so many other health concerns. You can read more about Vitamin D here. (Update: prescription dose of Vitamin D is now above 2500IU). I am amazed at how many symptoms can improve with this intervention alone - from mood, to joint pain, to energy, to hormones.
I am hoping for some beautiful crisp, cold, sunny January days to come. In the meantime, consider the fog a chance to spend less time on what's going on in the outside world and attend more of your focus on building your own inner strength & vitality.
Warmly,
Dr. Christa
P.S. If you would like a few strategies to manage stress quickly, check out these 4 options.
Coming up
I'm planning to do our next Detox Group at the end of January or beginning of February (finished before Family Day weekend). I've also got something in the works for a more comprehensive program so watch for info coming out on that too.
Book Appointment
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