HSP’s are naturally more sensitive to their environments and consequently are more affected by the change in the seasons; we can feel uncomfortable when it’s either too hot or too cold. This is of course subjective, and our moods are likely to be shaped as a result and we find it harder to function as non highly sensitives.

As well as cold and rain, the winter brings us less light, and we all need a certain amount of daylight to help boost our mood, bring about feel good factors and provide us with vitamin D. Lack of light, grey rainy days and temperature changes can be hard to adjust to and serotonin drops.

For me, when it’s cold my body feels like it’s about to seize up; my joints and muscles ache to an almost painful feeling when it’s really cold. My head feel full and my thinking feels muffled. My energy levels drop and I can just feel so blah I can’t be bothered with much.

So, what can we do?

Firstly, clothes. For me, it’s not just about how many layers I am wearing, it’s the type of material. Man made fibres make me itchy, sweaty and generally uncomfortable all round. Cotton is good and noticing whether you prefer close fit or need space to move around in. Making sensible choices that work for you is essential, whether inside or outside.

Food also plays a part here. Porridge for breakfast and winter soups. A home-made soup can also be so nutritionally good and a good comfort food. HSP’s have more food sensitivities so a home-made soup can be a great way to get the goodies in – vegetables, pulses, sweet potatoes, butternut squash, chicken.

Get out in nature, enjoy what is around even if it is grey and dull. The natural light, fresh air and just being in nature is so healing, grounding and mood boosting.

Get enough sleep. Lack of light affects our melatonin levels, the sleep hormone so our sleep can get disrupted. A good sleep routine will help; regular bed time as well as getting up at the same time. Highly sensitives need more sleep anyway and winter is no exception.

Watch your ‘over’ state. Whenever we’re ‘over’ everything seems so much worse.

I’m sure that there are many more things we can do to get through the winter, I’d love to hear what helps you in the comments.