Feeling down? Blame the weather! How people’s moods are affected by the seasons.

Have you been experiencing mood swings lately, or feeling a little bit out of sorts?

Feeling a little bit down is normal and usually picks up after a much needed cup of tea and a chat with friends.

However, some people report serious mood swings depending on the time of year.

There has been a lot in the papers recently about how people feel differently at different times of the year.

I have heard from people who feel very down and depressed when it’s dark and cold during winter. Their mood usually picks up again in time for summer. Some people report feeling very tired and sluggish during summer, but alert during winter.

It’s all too easy when its miserable and cold outside to retreat into your home, cancel those plans and snack on a serotonin-boosting snack to lift your spirits; and even with an extra half an hour in bed you still find yourself feeling tired and sleepy-headed.

Some people have even resorted to buying expensive light boxes in order to get some much needed vitamin D on dark, cold days.

Known as Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, experiencing mood swings is becomingly increasingly common, yet not much coverage has really been done on the phenomenon.

Many people are turning to hypnotherapy in order to manage their symptoms-it’s safe, and works by putting you into a state of deep relaxation, allowing you to visualise feeling happier, healthier and more balanced!

This is becoming a much more viable alternative for people who don’t like the thought of lots of medication or counselling.

With hypnotherapy, you are relaxed, and able to visualise a happier future for yourself, and manage your symptoms.

To find out more on how my hypnotherapy sessions can help you manage your seasonal mood swings, drop me an email on my email address.

Sheila x 

Escape the work rut

Do you feel as though you have got yourself into a bit of a rut?

It’s so easy to pick up habits as part of our daily work routine.

These could be as simple as picking up a stodgy lunch, clocking off a little earlier than normal, or even staying in bed for those extra fifteen minutes.

If you feel like you need to freshen your routine up, and improve your work-life balance, then look no further than my handy hints below:

1.    Get up earlier. It’s a commitment not many people want to make. Getting up earlier is like a physical pain to some poor people. But there’s no denying that the early to bed, early to rise adage really is true. Getting up earlier gives you more time to wake up, grab a proper breakfast and prepare to seize the day.

2.    Take a different route to work. It sounds simple-but it is a great way of mixing your routine up a little in a morning. If you drive to work, try setting off in good time and taking a more scenic route. If you walk or get the bus, try walking a different route, or getting off at an earlier stop. Studies by psychologists have found it’s a great way of making you more alert and perceptive.

3.    Visualise your goals: Spend afew minutes every day closing your eyes, letting all the clutter fade away and focus on your main goals that day. It can be anything-making time for the gym, cooking a healthy meal, or spending some evening time with your children. Crossing out each task you have achieved that day is a fantastic boost and gets you out of that rut.

4.    Be proactive: Is there a goal you would like to achieve in your life? Or an experience you would like to have? Be proactive to make any changes you feel are necessary in order to achieve them. Don’t be afraid to take the leap!

5.    Spend time with friends and family: Spending quality time with those you care about is really important. Studies have shown a quick coffee and a natter with friends can boost self-esteem. Don’t forget to make time!

Sometimes, you may need a bit more help to get out of that rut. If you find yourself feeling low quite a bit, and struggling to make the changes you want, you may benefit from talking to a professional.

Hypnotherapy works because it helps you find your own potential through the power of positive thinking. I firmly believe we all have the ability to make positive changes in our lives.

If you would be interested in hearing how hypnotherapy can help you to succeed, drop me an email or browse my website to find one of my licensed practitioners.

Sheila x