As the seasons turn and the days grow shorter, many of us begin to feel the subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) effects of darker mornings and evenings. The early light that once streamed through the curtains is replaced by shadow, the walk home from work happens under street lamps instead of sunlight, and our bodies quietly protest the shift.
It’s not just our imagination - the change in daylight truly affects our mood, energy levels, and overall wellbeing. But with a little care and intention, it’s possible to move through the darker months feeling grounded, balanced, and even inspired. At Duxmore Botanics, we believe nature always offers us gentle ways to adapt. Here’s how we try to invite warmth and vitality back into the days when the light begins to fade…
#1Start the Day with Light
When mornings are dark, our natural rhythms, especially our circadian rhythm, can fall out of sync. Sunlight helps regulate our internal clock, signalling when it’s time to wake and when it’s time to rest. Without it, we may wake feeling foggy or low in energy.
To counteract this, bring light into your morning routine. A wake-up light or sunrise alarm can make a world of difference. These lights gradually brighten before your alarm sounds, mimicking the natural rise of the sun. Even a soft, warm glow can trigger your body to release cortisol, the hormone that helps us feel alert and ready for the day.
#2 Embrace Morning Movement
It might feel harder to get moving when it’s still dark outside, but even five minutes of gentle stretching or yoga can make a noticeable difference to your mood and energy. Movement boosts blood flow, warms your body, and releases endorphins, all of which help counter the sluggishness that often accompanies dark mornings. If the weather allows, step outside for a short walk once it’s light. Even on cloudy days, natural daylight supports vitamin D production and helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle. Try breathing deeply as you walk, inhaling crisp air, exhaling any tension.
#3 Nourish Yourself with Seasonal Foods
Shorter days often bring cravings for warmth and comfort, and that’s perfectly natural. The body instinctively seeks grounding foods in colder, darker months, such as root vegetables, grains, and hearty soups. Filling your diet with seasonal produce not only supports your body’s needs but also keeps you connected to the rhythms of the earth. Try adding roasted squash, parsnips, or sweet potatoes to your meals. Herbs like thyme, sage, and rosemary add both depth of flavour and gentle immune support.
A warm cup of herbal tea can be a daily ritual of calm and care. Blends with chamomile, lemon balm, or lavender soothe the nervous system, while ginger and cinnamon invigorate. Choose a blend that feels like sunlight in a cup, something that grounds you in the present while lifting your spirits.
#4 Bring the Outside in
When daylight hours are limited, surrounding yourself with natural elements can help keep your spirits high. Plants, in particular, can transform your living space. They don’t just purify the air, they remind us of growth and the cycles of life continuing quietly even in the dark.
Consider adding low-light houseplants like snake plants, pothos, or peace lilies to your home. Their lush greenery thrives even when sunlight is scarce. A small arrangement of dried botanicals or seasonal foliage can also add a touch of nature’s beauty to your table or workspace.
#5 Create Evening Rituals of Rest
Dark evenings invite us to slow down, but modern life often pulls us in the opposite direction. Instead of resisting the darkness, use it as an opportunity to embrace rest and reflection. Set aside time to unwind with a soothing ritual that signals to your body it’s time to relax. Perhaps it’s lighting a candle, running a warm bath infused with a bath oil, or sipping a cup of calming tea. Dim the lights, switch off screens, and allow yourself to move at a gentler pace.
This is also the perfect time to nurture creativity. Many people find inspiration in the quiet of long evenings by journaling, knitting, or simply reading a beautiful book. These slower moments can feel deeply restorative, reconnecting you with yourself and with the quieter side of nature. Coping with dark mornings and evenings isn’t about fighting against the season; it’s about finding ways to live with it. When we align our routines, homes, and self-care with the natural rhythm of the earth, we create balance and resilience.
So, light a candle, brew a cup of something warm, and remember: even in the darkest months, the light is never truly gone. It’s simply waiting, in the quiet moments, in the small rituals, and in the promise of spring’s return.