Is Seasonal Affective Disorder Avoidable?

When the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, many Canadians start to feel their energy dip. That cozy, slow-down feeling of fall can easily tip into something heavier: the winter blues, or what’s known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

But here’s some good news: while winter’s darker months can affect our mood and energy, there’s a lot we can do to support ourselves naturally. In many ways, it’s less about avoiding SAD and more about staying connected. To the earth, to light, and to what nourishes us most deeply.

Let’s explore some ways to brighten your inner light this season.

Light Is Medicine

Our bodies are designed to respond to light. Sunlight regulates everything from our sleep-wake cycles to our serotonin production; the “feel good” neurotransmitter. In winter, when daylight hours shrink, our exposure to natural light drops dramatically.

That’s why morning sunlight and red-light therapy can make a world of difference. Even a few minutes outdoors in the morning (yes, even when it’s cold!) helps reset your circadian rhythm and lift your mood.

And for those darker mornings or long work-from-home days, consider the Kala Therapy Lamp For Seasonal Affective Disorder, available through our Light Therapy collection. It’s designed to simulate natural light, improve mood and energy, and help support what many experience as SAD.

Stay Grounded (Literally)

One of the simplest, and most overlooked, ways to support your mood through the darker months is to stay connected to the Earth’s energy. When you’re grounded, whether by walking barefoot on the earth or using our earthing products indoors, your body absorbs the Earth’s natural electrons. This process can help balance your nervous system, reduce stress, and support better sleep, all of which can ease symptoms of low mood and fatigue.

Think of it as nature’s way of restoring calm and clarity, no matter what’s happening outside.

Even when it’s snowy or frozen, you can stay grounded using our Essential Kit or the Sleep essentials.

Nourish Deeply

Cold weather calls for warming, grounding, and nourishing foods. Think stews, root vegetables, bone broth, and healthy fats. Foods that comfort and stabilize your energy.

Your body also needs extra vitamin D during the winter months. Because our skin makes less vitamin D with limited sun exposure, supplementation (as advised by your healthcare provider) can help support mood, immunity, and overall vitality.

Other mood-supporting nutrients include magnesium, omega-3s, and B-vitamins. All essential for brain and nervous system health.

Prioritize Deep Rest

Winter invites us to slow down. Instead of resisting it, lean in. Allow for earlier nights, slower mornings, and true rest. The kind of rest that nourishes your nervous system and helps you reset emotionally and physically.

Create evening rituals that signal your body it’s time to unwind: dim the lights, unplug from screens, ground before bed, perhaps curl up with a good book or warm tea.

You may find that by honouring your natural rhythm, your energy and mood feel steadier. Even on the darkest days.

Keep Moving (and Connecting)

While rest is essential, movement keeps energy flowing. Gentle exercise: walking, stretching, dancing or yoga, boosts endorphins and helps your body process stress.

And don’t underestimate the power of connection: spend time with loved ones, share meals, laugh often, and seek out beauty wherever you can find it.

Still in the dark?

Is Seasonal Affective Disorder avoidable? Maybe not entirely, but we can create an environment that supports emotional balance and vitality all winter long.

By combining red-light therapy, grounding, nourishing food, vitamin D, and deep rest, you’re giving your body and mind what they crave most. Natural alignment with the rhythms of the Earth.

So this winter, stay connected. To the ground beneath your feet, the light that nourishes you, and the small daily rituals that bring you home to yourself.

Because wellness doesn’t have to be complicated, it’s built on the simple things we do every day.