Responding to Seasonal Affective Disorder

My first fall in Colorado sparked a childlike sense of awe as the trees lit up in brilliant shades of gold. Almost as quickly as the colors arrived, the leaves fell, signaling that winter was undeniably near. As a California native, I found myself worrying about the colder temperatures, shorter days, and how these changes might affect my mental health. As the year winds down and the new year begins, our society often pushes expectations that feel deeply misaligned with nature’s cues. How do we move through a season where research shows drop in serotonin levels and a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms? And perhaps more importantly—can we, and should we, lean into the wisdom of Mother Nature?

Winter’s Effect on Mental Health and Seasonal Affective Disorder

Winter brings shorter days, limited sunlight, and cold temperatures that can lead to biological changes and mental health symptoms that go beyond the “winter blues.” Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, disrupting circadian rhythms, lowering serotonin levels, and altering the production of melatonin. These seasonal and biological shifts can negatively impact mood, social connection, energy levels, and access to activities that once felt enjoyable.

Syncing With the Season

When symptoms such as fatigue, sadness, isolation, or sleep disturbances arise, rather than fighting against the body, we can learn to respond with curiosity, alignment, and compassion. Nature is a powerful teacher, and winter symbolizes rest, stillness, and turning inward. It invites us to reframe rest not as failure, but as restoration—a necessary period of preparation. Winter encourages us to pause, reflect, honor difficult emotions, and nurture ourselves more deeply. Mother Earth is wise, and by taking cues from the land, trees, and animals, we may discover that this seasonal slowing is not something to resist, but the very medicine we need.

Slowing Down, Settling In, and Solutions for Decline

I’ve taken time to review some helpful products that help to bring nature in, return the body to states of calm, and encourage self-reflection. Products are suggested to help combat symptoms of seasonal affective disorder and encourage slowing down and nervous system regulation. Suggestions are not to be in place of therapy or medication management. If symptoms are persistent and increase, visit your primary care physician, therapist or psychiatrist for further interventions.

Products have been reviewed and selected by editor. This post contains affiliate links where I may receive a commission with no additional cost to you. These products have helped me through the winter season and if you’re ready to try it yourself, you can find it here:

Carex Day-Light Sky Bright Sunlight Therapy Lamp

Looking to bring nature in and synchronize your body’s natural rhythms? Therapy lamp combats low energy, fatigue and circadian rhythm disorders. 10,000 LUX stimulates natural sunlight. Glare free, expert recommended.

Amakane woodland Fragrance Oil

I love these fragrance oils and it brings the outdoors in with calming scents such as Forest Dew, English Oak & Hazelnut, and Alpine Air. Scents capture the earthiness of nature and present a pleasant atmosphere

Sacred Seasons & self-care for everyday

I love this book as it is a guide to living in alignment with nature’s cycles. Organized in seasons, this book provides teachings, opportunities to check in and self-evaluate, inspiration, and direction for evolving and growing.

Art of Tea Assorted Tea Bags

I can’t wait to try all varieties from Art of Tea! Assorted tea bags blending organic teas and botanicals to create custom tea blends. 100% organic, variety of caffeinated and decaffeinated with flavors including but not limited to: Egyptian Chamomile, French Lemon Ginger, and Green Pomegranate.

2 in 1 heated, weighted blanket

Extra-large, Sherpa material, weighted and heated to enhance soothing experience. Blanket does not only provide comfort but helps relieve muscle tension, improve anxiety with weighted features and promote relaxation.

Manduka Yoga Bolster Pillow

Yoga is one of my favorite ways to practice mindfulness, release body tension, slow down and connect to my body's messages. A yoga bolster can be used for meditation, flow, grounding or stretching. Soft, microfiber cover and dense support for stability and comfort.