8 Ways to Make the Most of Michigan Winters
Brighten Up Michigan Winters: Tips for Seasonal Wellness
When the moon hits your eye and it's just 4:45... that's November!
Some people are built for short, cold days... and others, not so much. As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop in Michigan, many people experience a seasonal shift in mood. Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression triggered by changes in daylight and weather patterns and seems to hit hardest after the delights of the holiday season. Before they come to pass, let's think ahead about SAD and how to keep it from settling in.
1. Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder
SAD impacts people who feel a decline in mood, energy, and motivation during the winter months. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), symptoms include feeling depressed for most of the day, fatigue, weight gain, and difficulty concentrating. According the MSU Today, it is estimated that as many as 20% to 40% of the population in Michigan has some degree of SAD... so, if you do have a degree of it, you're far from alone.
2. Vitamin D Supplementation
Michigan’s winter weather often limits sun exposure, which can reduce vitamin D levels, as our bodies need sunlight to produce this essential nutrient. Low vitamin D levels are associated with depression, making a change up in diet and/or supplementation good ideas. A study in the Journal of Internal Medicine suggests that vitamin D may improve mood in people with low levels, especially during winter. Besides in foods like fish, eggs and dairy, easily absorbed vitamin D can be found in supplements online or at local pharmacies. Definitely speak with your doctor when adding any supplement to your routine. A highly-rated daily dose is linked here.
3. Light Therapy Lamps
Light therapy lamps mimic natural sunlight and can significantly improve SAD symptoms. A study published by the Mayo Clinic found that light therapy can be effective for those experiencing SAD, especially when used consistently in the mornings. Look for lamps with around 10,000 lux to simulate outdoor lighting. Amazon offers a variety of options, making it easy to find one suited to your needs. Just 20 to 30 minutes of light exposure each morning can help lift your spirits. Given we're Realtors®, we naturally recommend one with a pleasing aesthetic for your home because as long as you're making the investment it should elevate the room too, right?! Speaking of investment, most Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Spending Accounts cover the costs of light therapy tools SO if you have an unused HSA/FSA balance you'd like to put to great use this year, check with your account administrator and then check out Our Pick for Home AND Our Pick for Travel.
4. Indoor Horticulture
Incorporating plants into your home is another way to brighten up dark winter days. According to research from the Journal of Physiological Anthropology, indoor plants can reduce psychological and physiological stress, making them a simple yet effective mood booster. Michigan State University Extension also emphasizes the benefits of indoor gardening for mental health, suggesting low-light plants like pothos or snake plants if natural light is limited. In recent years plants have become more in demand and something used regularly when we stage homes - Green brings the green, as we like to say ;) If you don't have a friend who propagates and shares theirs, you may find them on Marketplace, or Big Box retailers like Home Depot still, and believe it or not they are here on Amazon too.
5. Vacation Planning
Planning a mid-winter getaway can give you something to look forward to and break up the winter season. Research shows that even just planning a vacation can increase happiness and reduce stress. According to a study in the journal Applied Research in Quality of Life, the anticipation of a vacation provides more joy than the trip itself. Whether it’s a tropical destination or a quick weekend escape, a winter trip can help reenergize you.
6. Staying Plugged-in Locally
There are a lot of local events in West Michigan to look forward to beyond the holidays, including World of Winter, to get us through the stark stretch of January - March. Places like House Rules where you can set up game nights with friends and The Stray where you can listen to live music or poetry, are definite mood boosters. Come March, there will be Gilda's Laugh Fest to look forward to, and the balmy Butterfly Exhibit at FM Gardens too!
7. Embrace “Micro-Holidays” for Little Joyful Moments
In the stretch from November to March, you’ll find plenty of small holidays to celebrate. Think about Galentine’s Day in February, National Hot Chocolate Day, and both of our birthdays in January (wink, wink). Celebrating these “micro-holidays” can help break up the winter monotony. It doesn’t have to be elaborate either—a simple movie night, game watch party, euchre tournament, or winter hike can provide a mental refresh and offer a sense of togetherness and celebration.
8. Finding Help and Support
If SAD symptoms become severe, reach out to a mental health professional. You can find resources through Michigan's Dept. of Health & Human Services, which offers information on mental health support across the state. Be well, because this too will pass.
One kind word can warm three winter months. -Japanese Proverb
How can these small steps make a difference in your winter? Just like in real estate, a little maintenance and prevention go a long way. Investing in your (mental) health now can save you more down the road. While these tips may help ease the winter blues, they’re not a substitute for professional medical advice, so consult a healthcare provider for support if needed. And remember, WMI Home Team is here for you through every season.
