S6:E4 Sunshine and SAD
How Winter Shapes the BRain
Super Brain · Brennan Sabina
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Show Notes
Summary (short version):
Why does winter feel heavier for some of us? In this episode, we explore the neuroscience of Seasonal Affective Disorder — from circadian rhythms and serotonin pathways to evolutionary quirks and the strange possibility that humans may still carry traces of ancient hibernation biology. Learn why your brain struggles with short days, how morning light acts as a natural antidepressant, and practical strategies to help your winter self thrive.
I share my own experience with winter mood shifts, what the science says about why they happen, and — most importantly — the tools we can use to reclaim our energy and wellbeing during darker months.
Three Tools for Your Super Brain Kit:
- Light before screens — Get bright light within 30 minutes of waking (10–20 minutes outdoors or a 10,000-lux lamp).
- Anchor your day — Keep wake and sleep times consistent to stabilise your circadian rhythm.
- Reverse-winter habits — Add small dopamine-rich rewards before difficult tasks, not after, to counter low motivation.
Each episode explores what’s really going on inside your brain when you do the things you do — from the everyday to the extraordinary — and gives you three tools for your Super Brain kit.
Sabina's books
The Neuroscience of Manifesting
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