St John’s Wort, January Blues, and the Weight of Winter

January always hits differently.

The lights are gone. The routines are back. Life tightens again.

For many of us, January blues arrive quietly. Not dramatically. Just enough to dull your edge.

This year, instead of pushing through, I chose support. That led me to St John’s Wort and a deeper look at winter mood support through Traditional Persian Medicine.

Recognising Winter Mood Changes

Winter mood changes often feel subtle.

You may notice low motivation, emotional heaviness, slower thinking, or a lack of spark. This is not the same as clinical depression. January blues are seasonal, temporary, and often linked to reduced daylight, cold weather, and lower movement.

January Blues Are Not a Failure

There is pressure in January to feel motivated again. New goals. Fresh starts.

Traditional Persian Medicine recognises that mood and energy shift with the seasons. January blues are not a flaw. They are a natural response to winter’s cold and wet qualities.

Winter in Traditional Persian Medicine

In Traditional Persian Medicine, winter is cold and wet.

These qualities slow circulation and digestion and can weigh down the nervous system. Emotionally, this often shows up as heaviness, introspection, and low motivation.

Where St John’s Wort Fits In

St John’s Wort has long been used as a natural remedy for mood balance.

From a Traditional Persian Medicine lens, it is warming and drying. This makes it well suited to winter mood support, when cold and wet dominate.

How St John’s Wort Supports Mood Naturally

St John’s Wort supports emotional balance by gently lifting stagnation.

It is often discussed among natural antidepressants, though it works best for mild, seasonal low mood rather than clinical depression.

External references:
https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/st-johns-wort/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/st-johns-wort

Why I Chose to Try It This January

I did not feel depressed. I felt dulled.

Less enthusiasm. Slower mornings. Mental fog.

That was my cue to support rather than ignore.

One Week In – What Changed

After one week, I felt steadier.

Less resistance to the day. More emotional balance. Nothing artificial. Just support.

Winter Blues Need More Than One Tool

Traditional Persian Medicine works in systems, not shortcuts.

Mood support works best when digestion, elimination, and immunity are supported together.

Supporting the Body Alongside the Mind

Winter slows digestion and increases internal dampness.

Supporting mood means supporting the whole body.

Immunity Tea

A daily herbal tea helps warm digestion and strengthen immunity.

Internal link:
https://etwlife.com/products/damnoosh-immunity-tea

Sefidab® Body Detox Ritual

Skin is an organ of elimination.

Using Sefidab® Body Detox Calendula & Papaya Skin Peel Powder supports circulation and physical release.

Internal link:
https://etwlife.com/products/sefidab-body-detox-calendula-papaya

Simple Daily Habits That Help

- Warm breakfasts
- Herbal teas
- Short daylight walks
- Earlier nights

These habits support winter mood naturally.

What I Avoid During January Blues

Skipping meals. Cold foods. Late nights. Overstimulation.

Winter asks for softness.

St John’s Wort Is Not a Shortcut

St John’s Wort is not suitable for everyone.

It can interact with medications such as antidepressants, hormonal contraception, and blood thinners. Always check with a healthcare professional before use.

FAQ: Winter Mood Support

Can St John’s Wort help with low mood in winter?
It may support mild, seasonal low mood linked to winter blues.

What are common signs of January blues?
Low motivation, fatigue, emotional flatness, and reduced enthusiasm.

What lifestyle habits help winter mood?
Warm food, daily movement, herbal teas, and consistent sleep routines.

Final Thought

If January feels heavy, pause before judging it.

Are you low, or simply in winter?  Love Sherry x