Winter in Melbourne has a way of getting into your bones, raincoats, puffer jackets, scarves and boots are out in full force, and the grey skies can take a real toll on mood. With that in mind, we wanted to share some natural ways to support the hormones and neurotransmitters that shape how we feel.
We’ve seen more people exploring antidepressants in recent years, which makes sense, life has been genuinely harder for a lot of people. Antidepressants can be a genuinely useful stepping-stone to mental wellness for people who need them. This post isn’t about replacing that conversation, it’s about offering some natural, complementary options if that feels right for you.
When it comes to feeling good, the primary signalling chemicals are:
- Serotonin — balances mood and promotes feelings of wellbeing
- Dopamine — the “feel good” hormone, involved in motivation, pleasure and reward
- Endorphins — the body’s natural painkiller, helping you cope with stress and discomfort
- Oxytocin — supports love and connection, enhancing trust, empathy and bonding
How to support these naturally
- Magnesium and vitamin D (get some sun on your skin)
- Nutritious food, including omega-3s, and going easy on sugar
- Mild to moderate exercise
- Mindfulness, catching negative thought spirals early
- Meditation, even just 1-2 minutes to start
- Music, crank it, dance, move stagnant energy
- Journalling, even a paragraph a day
- Self-care, listening to your body more
- Acupuncture, supporting nervous system regulation
- Herbal medicine, customised formulas
- Physical connection, hugs from family, friends and pets
- Laughter, catch a comedy show or a friend who makes you giggle
If you’d like support exploring natural options alongside your current care, get in touch at hello@soulpod.com.au to book a consultation.