Monsoon and Depression: 3 Ways Rains Are Making You Feel Sad and Gloomy
They say that monsoon showers bring autumn flowers but they may also bring a funky mood. All of the rain that comes along this time of year can get extremely depressing. Sure, some people power through it but here's how rains are making you gloomy.
People are considering building an ark because it feels as if it has been raining for 30 days and 30 nights straight. In one of the wettest Julys, highly sensitive types like myself are finding it difficult to stay in the best of temper. Turns out that I am not the only one, a lot of people find themselves in a gloomy mood especially when it rains consistently for weeks. The extra precipitation alters the emotional centre (limbic system) of the brain and there is enough research to support this theory. Read on!
1 Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
When daylight becomes scarce, you can suffer from the seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Your body produces more melanin when you are exposed to less sunlight which in turn makes you feel sluggish and sleepy. And just as your body begins craving for those naps, your brain inhibits the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects mood, appetite, sleep, and sexual desire. Simply put, SAD can make you feel sad. To combat the disorder, consider putting your bedroom lights on in the morning, giving your brain the illusion of a sunrise. There has been research that light can boost serotonin, which elevates the mood. In a Bad Mood Today? Here is a Simple Guide to Lift Up Your Spirits.
2 Mindless Snacking and Weight Gain
With the plunge in serotonin levels due to the lack of sunlight, craving for carbohydrates increase. While munching on carbs can make you feel better because of the immediate serotonin increase, the happiness spike is short-lived, as serotonin levels drop shortly thereafter. A feeling of fatigue is common but a lot of snacking trying just to feel better can cause weight gain which then adds to the depression. A good idea would be to reach for starchy vegetables instead of parsnips, potatoes, or pumpkin as they are great sources for added vitamins, minerals, and fibre. Monsoon Diet Tips From Ayurveda: What Are The Best Fruits, Vegetables and Oils For The Rains?
3 Body Pain and Stiffness
The atmospheric pressure decreases along with the cloud and rains. This reduction in atmospheric pressure causes the body fluids to move from blood vessels to tissues, resulting in pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. And obviously, you cannot be in the best of your health if you are not in the best of your mood. So at least for those few months ditch the cardio and go straight to yoga and your knees and shoulders will thank you later.
And even if it is gloomy outside, you will still get some exposure to UV rays, which can help regulate your body’s circadian rhythm and boost your mood. So ensure that you at least go out for a 5-minute walk and if that is too much for you, just sit and enjoy your morning chai in your balcony to boost your serotonin levels.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 30, 2019 12:18 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).