You're Under the Weather...Literally

With the weather now changing and winter approaching in countries in the Northern hemisphere, the motivation to get up and study is at an all-time low, so why is that? Is it linked with weather? 

During summer, statistically, people tend to be happier with the sun in the sky, with over 87 percent of people saying that they were happy times of the year. However, as the colder season approaches the whole mindset, and emotions go through a spiral and reach a melancholic state of mind that completely demotivates and emits lethargy to study or even go out as people tend to cozy up at home over social events. 

This issue is more common for people residing in the north-with shorter daylight, people lacking sunlight.  

So why is sunlight important? Well there are many surprising benefits….. 

• Sunshine boosts serotonin levels which are responsible for a person's dopamine levels and in other words happiness and energy level. 

• Access to sunlight regulates circadian rhythm, which refers to  sleep levels and ability to have a more prolonged and rich sleep (something everyone needs in sixth form ) 

• Vitamin D! Very important nutrient that maintains bone health but also mental health as its deficiency causes minor depression and fatigue  

 While browsing on this topic I found that people can actually get diagnosed for the lack of sunlight with something called SAD- seasonal depressive disorder  

 This is a type of depression that occurs during the winter period where people experience the following symptoms  

• Lose in any activities or hobbies previously enjoyed  

• Oversleeping and issues with waking up  

• Difficulty in concentrating and keeping focus in lessons  

• Feelings of hopelessness and sadness prevailing daily1  

As we approach mock exams and tests, we need our health and focus to be at its maximum, but we can't control the weather or season, so, what can we control to reduce the effect of SAD?  

Our health  and routine … 

• Monitor the weather forecast and ensure you are aware of your activity levels during those days, to create a schedule with low stress levels, accommodating to you 

• Get a healthy sleep schedule (I'm aware it's hard with school ) but nonetheless important 

• Stay fit! Indulge in any activities that would get your heart rate up and body moving to keep your mind and body strong along with healthy dieting involving equal distribution of nutrients  

• Very important, communicate with others more, whether its friends or family communication increases dopamine levels and keeps stress on an all time low  

Stay warm and cozy during winter guys, and don't let the cold bother you!