Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
A mood disorder subset in which people who have normal mental health throughout most of the year exhibit depressive symptoms at the same time each year, most commonly in winter.
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Under normal circumstances, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects 3 in every 100 people in the UK during the autumn and winter months. Add in the stressors 2020 has thrown our way such as lockdowns, restricted freedom, social isolation and distancing to name but a few, and it is predicted these numbers will rise this year. However, there are a number of ways to help alleviate some of the symptoms and get those endorphins flowing and reduce stress.
Let’s Get Outside
During the coronavirus outbreaks across the globe, there have been a number of lockdowns implemented in countries such as Germany, France, Italy, Australia and, of course, the UK. During these lockdowns, people are advised to stay in doors, shops are closed and working from home became the new normal. However, in most cases, outdoor exercise was not only allowed, but encouraged.
Outdoor exercise and activities are a great way to alleviate stress, clear your mind and disconnect from everyday stressors. During a lockdown, this is no different. There are a number of walking path apps that allow you to map our routes to walk, or simply check out Google Maps and see where there are good parks in your area. You don’t need to jog, run or do anything physically exerting, the very act of being outside and disconnecting will help to calm your stress levels and clear your mind.
Reflexology for the Sole
Desperate to get out for a walk but have issues with your feet such as Plantar Fasciitis, Flat Feet or Bunions that can cause pain and discomfort during the shortest walks? No worries, you can add our Reflexology insoles to your favourite shoes and not only will you be able to get out and enjoy some fresh air, but the natural rubber nodes on the sole are designed to put pressure on specific points of your foot to help detox and de-congest toxins from your glands, just like a reflexology massage.
Benefits to adding a pair of Revs Reflexology insoles your wardrobe essentials include improved circulation, reduces stress, better and more evenly distributed balance and improved quality of sleep to name a few. You can find out more on the benefits in our Health & Benefits section.
You can find out more or order your own pair of Reflexology insoles here.
Not Just Insoles
Yes, a great way to alleviate the symptoms of SAD do include getting out and enjoying the benefits of fresh air and gentle exercise. But getting out and about can be difficult during the winter months thanks to the great British weather system. But there are ways to enjoy the benefits of a de-stressing and mood-boosting reflexology massive in the comfort and warmth of your home (this is especially good for those you may be self isolating). All Revs Reflexology Shoes provide a mini reflexology massage with every step, however, this time of year calls for the comfort and warmth of our Reflexology Slip-On Mules. With the orthotic massage sole designed using the science of reflexology and Biomechanics, our slippers not only help stimulate a reflexology massage, they are also super comfortable thanks to a cosy faux fur inner lining. Pair with a hot cuppa, some rich tea biscuits and a feel good movie and you’re to feel better for a while.
Find the perfect pair of slippers here
Not Cure But A Treatment
We understand that reflexology won’t beat the symptoms of SAD completely, like all mood disorders and mental health issues, it’s a combination of understanding your triggers, recognising that you’re not okay and/or working with mental health professionals that will be more likely to do the trick. However, getting out, exercising, indulging in self-care and taking time for yourself are all excellent ways to combat the everyday symptoms low mood and SAD can cause.
If you feel you need more help and guidance in dealing with your low mood or mental health issues, there’s always someone will to listen and help. Find the right service for you on the NHS website:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/mental-health-helplines/
This April is Stress Awareness Month and it couldn’t come at a better time. With countries all over the world in lockdown and restricted movement due to the Coronavirus outbreak, it’s safe to say that stress levels are at an all-time high.
The first thing to note is if you’re feeling stressed and overwhelmed right now… you are not alone. We are living in a difficult time and there is alot of uncertainty surrounding our every day lives right now. And it’s perfectly normal to feel like you’re struggling.
To try and help, we have put together a list of some of our favourite stress management techniques:
1 – Eat healthy, balanced meals. We know that reaching for the chocolate in times of stress feels so good at the time, however, in reality, it isn’t good for your body and in the process, not the best way to deal with stress.
2 – Get enough sleep. Try and get atleast 7 hrs sleep a night to help your body recover from the toll stress may be taking on your body.
3 – Accept what you can and cannot control. Coronavirus is something you cannot control. However, you can control your approach to life, you can control how you shield yourself and your family appropriately from the risks it poses. Focus on the elements you can control and not on those you cannot.
4 – Spend time with your loved ones. Yes, you read that right. We are incredibly lucky to be dealing with pandemic during the digital age where platforms such as Zoom and Facetime are available to make spending time talking to your family and friends a possibility. Take advantage and host an online party or just a general chat.
5 – Make exercise a part of your daily routine. Exercise is one of our bodies favourite ways to de-stress. Take a walk, do some yoga or pilates in the living room, set up an exercise circuit in the garden. There are plenty of ways to keep active and relieve stress whilst in lockdown.
6 – Finally – this one is our favourite – indulge in a little reflexology. With Revs Sandals, whether you wear our classic sandals, flip flops or even our insoles, you will receive a relaxing reflexology massage with each step you take. The nodes in the soles of our shoes are designed to put pressure on specific reflexology points on the sole of your foot and, as a result, help improve your blood flow and aid relaxation. For more information on the science behind our reflexology sandals and stress management, visit our Stress Management page
