As the days shorten and the sunlight fades earlier each afternoon, it’s natural to feel your energy shift. There is a very simple, natural explanation for this phenomenon:
Less sunlight → lower serotonin and vitamin D → affects mood and energy.
Disrupted circadian rhythm due to shorter days and indoor living.
Reduced outdoor time + movement, leading to less dopamine and endorphin release.
Evolutionary background: Humans used to rest more in winter — modern life doesn’t allow that, causing burnout.
Signs you might be affected
- Fatigue, oversleeping, craving carbs or sugar
- Loss of motivation or interest
- Feeling flat or disconnected
- Difficulty waking up or staying focused
How to support yourself naturally
☀️ Morning Light Exposure:
Get outside within an hour of waking — even cloudy daylight helps reset your circadian rhythm.
🥣 Eat Seasonally:
Root vegetables, omega-3s, fermented foods, and vitamin D-rich ingredients.
💪 Gentle Movement:
Tennis, walks, stretching, or short cold exposure — natural dopamine without over-stimulation.
🕯 Create Light Rituals:
Use candles, low warm lighting, and calm evenings — leaning into darkness rather than fighting it.
🌲 Connection to Nature:
Forest walks, grounding, bringing natural elements indoors (branches, pine, herbs).
💭 Community + Reflection:
Invite warmth through human connection — dinners with friends, journaling, gratitude, time off screens.
When to seek support
Support doesn’t have to mean something drastic. It might look like:
- Talking to a GP or therapist about how you’re feeling.
- Trying light therapy (SAD lamps) — a safe, evidence-backed tool that mimics natural sunlight and helps regulate serotonin and melatonin.
- Getting your vitamin D levels checked, or supplementing under guidance.
- Scheduling time outdoors with a friend — combining light, movement, and connection.
Just as we tend to a plant that isn’t getting enough light, we can tend to ourselves with the same patience and care. Winter doesn’t last forever — but seeking support ensures that when spring returns, you’re ready to bloom with it.
Closing — Finding Light in the Dark Months
live well through the winter.
A walk in the pale morning sun. The warmth of a cup between your hands. Candles flickering against the dark. These small rituals remind us that life continues to move gently beneath the surface.
Feed your body with warmth and nourishment, your mind with light and movement, your heart with connection.
The Silvan way 
Leave a comment