How to fight seasonal depression using Ayurveda?

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The fall period is often synonymous with mood swings for many of us. When the leaves start to fall and the days get shorter, some people experience a dip in morale . Why are we depressed in autumn? This is what we will explore in this article, by proposing solutions inspired by Ayurveda to combat this autumn blues .

What is seasonal depression?

Seasonal depression, also called seasonal affective disorder , is a type of depression that occurs at specific times of the year, usually in the fall and winter. It is often linked to reduced light and lack of sunlight. Shorter days can cause a disruption in the brain's biological clock, affecting morale and energy.

What are the symptoms of seasonal depression?

Symptoms may vary from person to person but generally include:

• Persistent fatigue

• An increased need for sleep

• A drop in energy

• Difficulty concentrating

• An increased desire to eat, especially carbohydrates

• Weight gain

• A low or depressed mood

Why are we depressed in autumn?

Fall is often considered the most depressing season of the year. This depression may be due to fewer hours of daylight, which affects the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with well-being. In addition, reduced brightness can disrupt our internal clock, leading to sleep problems.

How can Ayurveda help with seasonal depression?

Ayurveda, an ancient Indian science, offers various solutions to maintain well-being and balance of body and mind:

Light therapy :

Although light therapy is a more modern approach than Ayurveda, it can still be complementary to this ancient system of medicine. Luminotherapy, or light therapy, is based on exposure to special lamps that imitate natural sunlight. This technique is especially useful during the fall and winter months when natural light is minimal.

• Balancing the Doshas : Light is connected to the fire element in Ayurveda, which is essential for balancing the Vata dosha, dominant during winter.

• Circadian Rhythm: Waking up with a light source helps regulate the circadian cycle, thus aiding in improved sleep and energy levels.

Balanced diet :

Ayurveda places particular emphasis on diet and considers certain foods to be more beneficial or aggravating for each dosha. During cold months, when the Vata dosha may be out of balance, here are some general principles:

• Hot Food : Hot, cooked, spicy foods can help soothe Vata. Think stews, soups and casseroles.

• Heavy Food : Heavier, nutritious foods, such as nuts, seeds, and whole grains, provide needed energy and heat.

• Spices : Use spices like ginger, black pepper, and turmeric to warm the body from the inside out and stimulate digestion.

Physical activity :

Movement is essential to maintain balance and prevent stagnation, especially during cold months when Kapha can become dominant with inert and heavy qualities.

• Yoga : Yoga is particularly appreciated in Ayurveda for its holistic approach to well-being. Poses that encourage chest opening, such as Cobra or Fish, can be particularly helpful in counteracting the tendency to withdraw into oneself in winter.

• Walking : A daily walk, especially if it can be done in daylight, helps maintain circulation, reset circadian rhythms, and stimulate endorphin production.

• Breathing (Pranayama) : The practice of breathing techniques like “Kapalabhati” to stimulate energy or “Nadi Shodhana” to balance masculine and feminine energies can be integrated.

By integrating these practices and knowledge from Ayurveda into your daily routine, you have the opportunity to support your mental and physical well-being through the seasons and approach seasonal depression with a proactive, centered strategy.

Food supplements :

Our “ Good humor duo ” treatment:

Composed of Ajygaité (based on rhodiola and saffron) and Ajyodea (based on iron, magnesium, vitamins B9 and B6), can support your morale during the dark months.

Why opt for our “ Good-humor Duo ” treatment ?

• Ajygaity : Rhodiola is renowned for its adaptogenic properties, helping the body adapt to seasonal changes. Saffron, on the other hand, is often associated with improving mood.

• Ajyodea : Iron and magnesium help reduce fatigue. Vitamins B9 and B6 support

Incorporating this cleanse into your daily routine could provide additional support to navigate through the darker months and regain a balanced mood.

When the doshas are out of balance, it can lead to health problems or mental disorders, such as seasonal depression.

Here are some tips specific to each dosha to combat seasonal depression:

Vata (Air & Ether):

• Diet : Opt for hot, oily and heavy foods to counter the dry and light side of Vata. Soups, stews and cooked cereals are recommended.

• Beverages : Hot herbal teas, especially those made with ginger, are beneficial for soothing the Vata dosha.

• Routine : Try to maintain a regular routine, especially for sleep, as Vata is easily thrown out of balance by irregularity.

• Massage : A daily self-massage with warm sesame oil can be soothing.

Pitta (Fire & Water)

• Diet : Choose fresh, soft and hydrating foods. Avoid spicy, sour or too hot food which could worsen Pitta imbalance.

• Drinks : Herbal teas like chamomile, fennel and mint are soothing for Pitta. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks which can increase heat.

• Activities : Gentle practices such as yoga or swimming are beneficial. Try to avoid excessive sun exposure during the middle of the day.

• Relaxation : Meditation and deep breathing techniques can help cool the Pitta mind and avoid irritability.

Kapha (Earth & Water)

• Diet : Light, dry, warm foods are preferable. Limit the consumption of heavy and fatty foods which can worsen Kapha imbalance.

• Drinks : Opt for hot drinks and avoid sugary drinks. Herbal teas with ginger or black pepper can help stimulate digestion.

• Activities : Integrate regular physical activity into your routine. Kapha needs to move to avoid lethargy, so focus on dynamic activities like running or aerobics.

• Wake-up : Kapha tends to be heavy in the morning. Try to get up early to avoid feeling heavy throughout the day.

Conclusion

Seasonal depression is a disorder that many of us experience, but thanks to Ayurveda, there are natural ways to help balance our bodies and minds during the darker months. By understanding your doshic constitution, you can take a personalized approach to combating the symptoms of seasonal depression. And don't forget, AJY's " good mood duo " treatment is here to offer additional support.