Ease the November Blues!

By Susan Kingston,
Registered Holistic Nutritionist.

Hi Everyone,

I thought this would be a great time to give some tips on easing those November blues. Many people fall into depressive moods this time of year, and it’s no wonder with the time change–the early sunset, the cold and the rain and snow taking over!

Today we will go over a few ways to make it through this time with more ease!

Reduce Toxic Load

All year long we eat and drink things that put stress on our system, such as processed foods, sweets, alcohol, etc; many of us  breathe in polluted air in the city; many of us are sedentary in front of a computer or phone; many of us exposed to medications or heavy metals or other known or unknown toxins inside our homes or out. November is a great time to clean up inside and out. Eating home made soups full of vegetables of all kinds is an excellent base for a fall cleanse, along with increasing water intake, drinking herbal teas, and making smoothies with berries. Lighten the load by omitting dairy and all grains for 3 weeks, along with all processed food, sugar and alcohol. You will feel lighter and refreshed!

Outside of the body, declutter! Throw out old clothes, old items, clean your space, cupboards, and your desk–and clean it all with non-toxic products such as a spray bottle with water, a tiny bit of bio unscented dish soap and some essential oils such as peppermint, orange and tea tree. This will freshen the mood and lighten your surroundings!

Daylight

Try a Daylight Lamp. 20 minutes in the morning can make a huge difference in mood for those who are affected by the loss of hours of light.

Outdoor Time  

If you work inside, dress warm and go outside for 10-20 minutes on your lunch for natural light and fresh air –this will wake up the humdrum of being inside all day and help carry you through the afternoon with energy to spare.

Take Baths

If you are one of those who work outside, or even if you are not–a nice hot bath with epsom salts and relaxing essential oils will really soothe the soul. Give yourself a nightly treat and light candles, put on some quiet music and enjoy the warmth while the world outside is cold :-)

Below are a couple of soup recipes to start with :-)  Enjoy!

Chicken, Spinach & Sweet Potato Soup

Download the recipe

Leek & White Bean Soup

Download the recipe

About the Author
Susan Kingston studied at the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition and graduated with honours receiving a Certification of Registered Holistic Nutritionist. She is a member of the Naturothérapeutes du Quebec. She specializes in nutrition, supporting people in bringing their body back into balance to overcome health challenges and optimize their health. Susan is the mother of 2 daughters and lives with her husband in Mont-Tremblant Quebec.