Sweater Weather Is Coming: How to Support Your Body Naturally Through the Darker Days
As the air turns crisp and the sun sets earlier, it’s clear that sweater weather has officially arrived in Hillsboro, Oregon. While many of us welcome the cozy season with open arms and pumpkin-spiced everything, the shift to shorter, darker days can also bring changes in mood, energy, and motivation. For some, these changes may hint at Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)—a type of depression that follows the rhythm of the seasons.
At Ancora Wellness, our naturopathic care team understands how deeply these seasonal shifts affect both mind and body. The good news? There are ways to prepare and support your system naturally before winter takes its toll.
Embracing Hygge: The Art of Cozy Well-Being
In Scandinavian culture, hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”) describes the feeling of comfort, contentment, and connection that comes from simple pleasures—think warm blankets, flickering candles, nourishing meals, and heartfelt conversations. Incorporating hygge into your daily life can be more than just cozy; it’s a proactive way to nurture emotional balance.
Creating hygge might look like:
- Setting aside time for tea and reflection each morning.
- Lighting candles or using soft lighting in the evenings.
- Spending time with loved ones, even virtually.
- Embracing slow moments without guilt.
These rituals remind the nervous system that safety, warmth, and connection are still present—even as the world outside grows darker.
Four Natural Ways to Prepare Your Body for the Season
Our naturopathic doctors in Hillsboro recommend a holistic, preventative approach to seasonal wellness. Here are four evidence-based, natural interventions to help you thrive this fall and winter:
1. Optimize Vitamin D
As daylight hours fade, Vitamin D levels drop, affecting mood, energy, and immune function. Supplementation can be key, especially in the Pacific Northwest where sunshine is scarce. Your naturopathic doctor can test your levels and help determine the ideal dose for your body.
2. Prioritize Light Exposure
Light therapy boxes or early-morning walks can help regulate your circadian rhythm and boost serotonin levels. Try to get at least 15–30 minutes of bright light exposure within an hour of waking.
3. Balance Your Nutrition
Seasonal cravings for comfort food are natural—but aim for balance. Incorporate omega-3-rich foods (like salmon or walnuts), magnesium (leafy greens, seeds), and complex carbohydrates to help stabilize mood and blood sugar.
4. Support Emotional Resilience
Herbal allies like St. John’s Wort, Rhodiola, or Ashwagandha can help balance stress hormones and uplift mood. Because herbs interact with medications, it’s best to consult a qualified provider before beginning any new regimen.
Whole-Person Support in Hillsboro, Oregon
At Ancora Wellness, our naturopathic doctors, counselors, and integrative care providers collaborate to help you feel grounded, balanced, and well throughout every season. Whether you’re navigating mood changes, energy dips, or simply seeking more ease this winter, we can help you find a personalized plan that fits your body’s unique rhythm.
Embrace the season with intention, coziness, and care.
Book a naturopathic consultation today to prepare your body and mind for the months ahead.
