During the winter months I seriously prioritize my mental health. Unlike the summer, when I can bask in the sunlight for a few hours and remind myself that the world is warm and bright and totally okay. When it’s wintry and grey, it takes a bit more effort and creativity.
Because, TBH, I hate being cold. I hate going outside in the winter because layering up with sweaters and jackets and coats makes me claustrophobic. And the freezing temps are worse. I can’t win.
But staying inside all day and hermiting around is not my thing, either. I need to leave my house to feel connected beyond the barrage of screens in my apartment. Hot Girl Walks are a necessity in my weekly routine or I will lose my mind.
If you can’t tell, I definitely deal with anxiety and seasonal depression. But that’s okay, I’m not the only one. The overall feeling of impending doom may never fully leave my mind. But over the years, I’ve found ways to cope with it …especially during those winter months of dreary 4pm sunsets.
Daylight Savings just kicked in, and I’m nervous. I want to get ahead of the anxiety and lack of light before it gets to me. Call me crazy, but I’m determined to be completely prepared for those anxiety-filled days.
So with the cold lurking around the corner and my willingness to leave the house growing thinner by the day, I’m sharing my list of products that help my anxiety. Because we can all benefit from a little mental health reset during the dark days of winter.
The Ice Roller is one of my best friends all-year-round. In the summer, I it cools down my face. But, in the winter months, it’s great for tension headaches, de-puffing, and anxiety.
Keep it in your freezer and whenever you feel a wave of anxiety coming, roll it over your pressure points or on the back of your neck. There are studies that show how ice can help with anxiety. The Ice Roller is a chill solution.
Sour Candy
Another proven tried-and-true is sour candy. Keeping a bowl on your desk for those panicky moments can help you shock your system and stave off a panic attack. It’s essentially distracting your brain from the anxiety and focusing on the extreme sour taste.
My fave is this Tub of Warheads provides plenty of candy to suck on.
Essential Oil Rollerball
Aromatherapy can calm the body, dial down high blood pressure, and even help with insomnia. Lavender, jasmine, and chamomile are all excellent essential oils for relaxing you in the event of an anxiety attack.
This Rollerball is great to keep on your desk or in your purse. When you feel anxious, dab it on your wrist and neck and you’ll calm down and …smell so good.
By the time everyone’s finished their workday, the sun has essentially set. We’re missing out on essential Vitamin D and that can negatively affect our moods.
Olly offers gummies with Vitamin D and Saffron to balance out and improve your mood.
Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial for your health and mental well-being. I like to set myself up for success with a freshly made bed and a spritz of this sleep spray. It has Melatonin and essential oils that will send you right to dreamland.
If you struggle with anxiety, the little things can make a big difference. Make sure to get a lot of exercise, supplement your vitamin D, and surround yourself with people who you trust. These small tips and tricks will help you get through the rough part of the season.
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