The changing of the seasons, it's an enchanting dance that the earth performs as it spins on its axis. This change is not just a visual spectacle; it significantly impacts our health and wellbeing. The vibrant sunshine of summer gives way to the shortening days of autumn, followed by the chilly embrace of winter, and finally, the world reawakens with the arrival of spring. 

Do you ever find that your mood seems to mirror these natural transitions? Perhaps you feel a bit low as the leaves fall in autumn, or your energy levels drop during a summer heatwave. These feelings are not just in your head; they're real physiological responses to the changing seasons, backed by scientific research (1, 2). But fear not; there are ways to help your body better adapt to these seasonal shifts.

1: Soak Up the Sun

One of the most significant seasonal changes is the fluctuating amount of daylight we get. This is because our body's internal clock, or circadian rhythm, uses light to regulate many functions, including our sleep-wake cycle, mood, and even our immune system (3).

During the darker months, exposing yourself to as much natural daylight as possible is important. Consider taking a brisk walk during your lunch break or early in the morning. If you work from home, try setting up your workspace near a window.

Consider investing in a light therapy lamp if you're struggling with reduced daylight.. These devices mimic natural sunlight and have been shown to help regulate sleep patterns and improve mood during the darker months.

2: A Daily Dose of Goodness: Rosita Extra Virgin Cod Liver Oil 

Sunlight is our primary source of vitamin D, the 'sunshine vitamin.' This essential nutrient is crucial for our immune system, promotes bone health, and even aids in mood regulation. Regrettably, during the darker months, our ability to produce enough vitamin D can be significantly reduced due to insufficient sunlight.

This is where Rosita Extra Virgin Cod Liver Oil can be a game-changer. This high-quality supplement is an excellent source of naturally occurring Vitamin D3 and other beneficial nutrients such as Omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin A. This oil is sourced from wild-caught fish in the pristine waters of Norway, and its gentle production process ensures the preservation of these vital nutrients (4). Just a spoonful a day can help keep your vitamin D levels topped up and your immune system robust, regardless of the weather.                                                       

3: Keep Moving

Regardless of the season, regular physical activity is crucial. It's well-documented that exercise lifts your mood, strengthens your immune system, helps maintain a healthy weight, and even improves sleep quality (5). It's easy to let our activity levels drop when it's cold and dark outside, but it's essential to keep moving.

During the warmer months, make the most of the great outdoors. Try cycling, swimming, hiking, or even just a long walk in the park. If the weather's not cooperating, there are plenty of indoor exercises that can get your heart rate up. Try a yoga or Pilates class, a home workout video, or just dancing around your living room to your favourite tunes.

4: Maintain a Healthy Home Environment with Homebiotic Spray

While it's important to look after our bodies in response to the changing seasons, it's equally vital to consider our living environment. As the weather changes, we adjust our homes – opening windows in the summer, sealing up and heating in the winter. These changes can impact the balance of our home's microbiome, leading to increased dampness, mould growth, and an overgrowth of unwanted bacteria (6).

The quality of our indoor environment can significantly impact our overall health, affecting our respiratory systems, immune response, and even mental health. This is especially important during colder months when we tend to spend more time indoors.

Enter Homebiotic Spray, a natural probiotic spray designed to restore a healthy bacterial balance in your home. It works by introducing beneficial bacteria, which outcompete the harmful ones, helping to prevent musty odours and maintain a healthy home environment.

To use, simply spray in areas prone to dampness and mould, such as bathrooms and kitchens, or anywhere you want to encourage a healthy microbiome. The spray is all-natural and safe for the entire family, including pets.

By maintaining a healthier home environment with products like Homebiotic Spray, you can protect and enhance your wellbeing, no matter what the season brings. It's an often-overlooked aspect of seasonal health, but itcan make a significant difference.

By taking a comprehensive approach – considering not only our own bodies but also the environments we inhabit – we can better navigate the changes each season brings, maintaining optimal health and vitality throughout the year.

5: Look After Your Mental Health

Seasonal changes can also have a significant impact on our mental health. Many people experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression linked to the changing seasons, particularly the transition from autumn to winter (7).

Sticking to a regular sleep pattern, staying socially connected, and seeking professional help when needed can be incredibly effective in managing these seasonal mental health shifts. Mindfulness and meditation can also help you stay grounded and centred amidst the changing seasons.

Remember, it's okay to ask for help if you're feeling low. Reach out to a mental health professional if you're having a tough time. You're not alone, and there are resources and treatments available that can help.

In Conclusion

Seasonal changes don't have to wreak havoc on your health. instead, by tuning into these shifts and taking a few key actions, you can support your body and mind through each transition and even harness the unique benefits that each season brings. Remember, it's about more than just surviving these shifts; it's about thriving in harmony with them.

Soak up as much natural light as possible, keep your body moving, take care of your mental health, and supplement wisely.

Our bodies are an integral part of nature, not separate from it. By understanding this, we can learn to flow with seasonal rhythms, just as nature does. It requires a bit of knowledge, some preparation, and a willingness to embrace each season with open arms.

Remember, our team at Functional Self is here to help you on this journey towards optimal health. We're passionate about providing high-quality, scientifically-backed products that can support you in living your best life, no matter the season.

In your journey towards better health, why not explore our specials page for the latest deals on our curated range of products? There's no better time to invest in your health; we're here to make that journey as affordable and enjoyable as possible.

References:
[1] Seasonality in affective disorders
[2] Diurnal cortisol slopes and mental and physical health outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis
[3] Light as a central modulator of circadian rhythms, sleep and affect
[4] Dietary levels of all-trans retinol affect retinoid receptors expression and skeletal development in european sea bass larvae
[5] Health benefits of physical activity: the evidence
[6] The microbiome of the built environment and mental health
[7] Seasonal Affective Disorder: An overview of assessment and treatment approaches