A DAY IN MY LIFE AS A VEGAN YOUTUBER + WHAT I ATE TODAY

[@techyvegan]

WHEN YOU STARTED SINGING I WAS TAKEN ABACK OMG

[@ohbuddyiliketowatch]

Techy Vegan many talents this girl has.

[@techyvegan]

ohbuddyiliketowatch She's amazing!! 💞

[@holisticjessa9007]

SO GOOD

[@ConscientiousOmnivore]

Yeah, super nice voice! I dig it too :-)

[@CheapLazyVegan]

it's sooo interesting to see other youtubers' process! I can't believe you test your recipes twice before lol I literally just film the first take and hope for the best. LMAO. I truly live my life by the name of my channel heh heh

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

haha I love it -- and that totally makes sense for your channel theme. if i were just cooking for myself i would never do all that testing. i'm also a cheap lazy vegan at heart. 😛

[@gravelbeardz]

We need more vlogs Sarah! You're literally my favourite human being.

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

aw :) you are so kind

[@oceanmermaid3700]

You have a beautiful singing voice!

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

Thank you :)

[@MoniBahaa]

I'm looking forward to a full version of the Coldplay song!😁

[@B.Christine_W222]

Sarah's Vegan Kitchen Sing some more you have a beautiful God given voice🤗

[@ibrake4oxtail]

Seriously! Do you have a Soundcloud or anything?

[@rachelcachete9802]

One thing that really helps me in the winter with my seasonal depression is waking up as early as I'm able to. Extending my day and waking up before the sun, makes the day feel longer, and I'm less likely to crash once the sun is down. Also, CBD OIL has been so, so helpful with my clinical depression and anxiety. I've been able to work my way off of zoloft by microdosing CBD oil in my morning coffee! I was skeptical at first, but it really worked for me

[@dubiousenthusiast]

Rachel Marie I've been thinking about getting into CBD oil / microdosing lately. Any specific suggestions/types I should try?

[@Ella.L.]

What is CBD?

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

Thanks so much for the tips! I've never used anything with CBD but I've heard so many positive stories about it.

[@TheWonderfulSofia]

Omg I love cbd it helped me with my anxiety and depression too. For those wondering, I get this brand online called nuleafnaturals and it's pretty amazing but another brand I heard works well is charlottesweb. You can do more research on it it's honestly a gift from the gods

[@karlagarcia5251]

hey, I know it gets harder and harder with seasonal depression, but what helped me like a lot was actually working my ass off at the gym, there's this weird feeling of empowerment when you work out that kinda hides the sadness, anyway girl don't let this get you, you are so much more than that!!! hugs and kisses. Ánimo!!!

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

thank you so much! yep, last winter was when I got super into fitness for the first time ever and it definitely helped me stay motivated and productive! :)

[@ThePerceptionTrainersPT]

Oh my gosh! I am so stoked to hear that my videos are serving you :) Thank you so much for the shout out, that was so incredibly kind and I appreciate it so much. With SAD - there are a few other things you can try to help! Taking a B-Vitamin complex can help elevate mood - and making sure you are getting adequate B-vits just in general can help with everything. Second thing, adding a green juice into your day can really help too. The chlorophyll is 'almost' like a substitute for sunlight, and works in a similar way in the body to help boost your mood. Negative ions from salt lamps or going for walks near the ocean will also really help to boost your mood. Last thing on the physical plane - having just a 'loose' structure with your eating can really help to balance you out. I know you are a food blogger and so keeping a really consistent pattern with your eating is challenging, which is totally OK! It does not have to be 'perfect' or a meal plan, but just giving your body a sense of knowing what to expect with food can really help. We often don't realize that we do stress our bodies out when we are inconsistent with our habits, and eating on a semi-regular schedule each day can dramatically help in reducing that underlying stress that taxes the adrenals and then makes us feel wiped out. On the mental/emotional side - have you checked out the Emotional Mastery series I have up? Usually if we are dealing with chronic emotional upset, there are messages our emotions are trying to send us that we are not getting. Programming we are living out that doesn't match who we really are - OR we are living the life WE want to be living, but our conditioned values haven't caught up yet, and so we feel underlying guilt and regret even living our dreams, because we feel like we are betraying our morals. Does any of that resonate? Sending you a huge hug new friend!

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

Omg thank you so much for the beautiful comment! I love all the tips and will work on integrating them into my day-to-day. :) I've watched so many of your videos I forget exactly which ones I haven't seen yet, so I'll give the Emotional Mastery series a listen this week. Thanks again!

[@ThePerceptionTrainersPT]

Of course! Let me know if there is anything else I can do for you lovely!

[@a.o.3523]

These are the best kind of videos! ! I love the singing, even if it's just a few words. I love the 'uncut' version of you, just you being real.

[@christinat.7171]

Hi Sarah. Interesting to see the behind the scenes. For s.a.d. here are some ideas. Healthy fats for the brain:walnuts, pecans, avocados. Be outside as much as possible. Exercise daily. Walking outside. Sun lamp early morning. Inside: sit by the window as much as possible. Winter break some place very sunny. D3 vitamin. Find something fun to do like dancing. Something you don't normally do. Stimulates your brain. Hope this helps :).

[@colleengrantt]

omg thank you for this

[@dulceabril5821]

For any depression keep busy, thank you so much for your videos they are inspirational. The tofu recipe on the video “how to tofu” is my favorite! Thank you Sarah and my Son Rocco is you fan.

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

awww thank you so much :)

[@ALifeBeyondRubies]

Tanning bed! Just only do 5 minutes once or twice a week in the winter, also creating traditions or habits that are cold weather friendly like ice skating, hot bath with a good book or music, crafts for the holidays etc... also another reason people can get seasonal depression is type of food, there is a lot less fruits in season and we tend to eat more comfort foods , however I’m a firm believer that food can effect your mood greatly. So make sure your not slacking on healthier foods

[@carry_on_carly]

I fully agree with this. It helps me so much.

[@michelledeater]

Instead of a tanning bed, you should talk to your physician about photo therapy. I don’t recommend tanning to treat depression. Melanoma isn’t worth it

[@honamikawamura5621]

I don't know if this will work for you, but I also used have seasonal depression since I moved to Canada after growing up in a tropical country. I think what has really helped is connecting with other people. Doesn't have to be everyday but going out to see people whether it's for a dinner out, or just seeing my colleagues at work, has really helped me maintain a positive headspace and not get bogged down feeling lonely on my own :)

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

definitely. I am an introvert and getting out there is something I really need to push myself to get better at!

[@CinnamonHi]

Honami Kawamura I completely agree! I’m a born and raised Canadian and it’s ALWAYS hard this time of year, but socializing truly does help!

[@Astro_Z0mbies]

I also struggle with seasonal depression. Music, Podcasts and videos help me a lot. I also noticed the more I went to the gym, the better my mood for the day was. It seems like the basic answers, but I think just doing stuff that makes you happy or being around people that make you happy helps SO much. I hate winter, lol.

[@beccak428]

My dad gave me the advice: keep busy. If you can distract yourself from the creeping depressive thoughts it really helps. Also exercise. Much love. Having had depression for half my life and still struggling with it daily these things help :). Good luck

[@melissah3527]

We(I) love you too! You are such genuine and relatable person. Exercising and doing things for others always helps with my winter depression.

[@wttthm]

Maybe not specific to SAD, but my depression has become almost a non-issue so to speak from some of the following changes i made: • Regular cardio of at least 20 mins. Usually jogging • Good gut health, usually Kombucha + probiotics, and little to no sugar, etc • Yoga for about 45 mins then meditation everyday. The meditation was THE best change for me. • St Johns Wort, 300mg 3x/day. • Trying to get good sleep of at least 7.5-8 hrs by using yoga, meditation, chamomile tea and magnesium - and no screens for at least an hour before bed. I've looked into using one of the SAD light devices, but haven tried it yet. Hope this helps Sarah!

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

Yesss I love all the tips! I used to take St. John's Wort a long time ago when I was severely depressed. But you know how it goes; we usually slack on our maintenance when things start to feel a little better.

[@virginiabalseiro8438]

Just a heads up: St. John's Wort cannot be taken if you're taking any hormonal birth control.

[@catherinepatin9961]

Hey Sarah, the absolute best thing for S.A.D./Seasonal Affective Disorder is light therapy. It's a lamp that omits a frequency of light similar to natural Sunlight. It is normally used early in the day, in your peripheral vision, for anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes per day, depending on the person. It works amazingly well. I also use it for my Narcolepsy and it undoubtedly would help people with Chronic Fatigue, etc. It's also been recommended to some of my other family members and friends for depression, etc. A good, Dr. recommended light, would probably run $50-$100 but there's less and more expensive one's available. LED lights are the best.

[@zeospike]

Sarah I'm so grateful to you for spending the extra time testing your recipes, explains why they are so great 😊

[@user-kj7jk6kn9g]

You are somehow so calming, I am going through some kind of depression of this time of the year (I've finished the school year at college last week and I've found myself spending hours inside with no friends to hang out with) and this video was so heartwarming

[@JacMarinoChen]

Jesus. I know how absolutely ridiculous that may sound, but as someone who struggled with depression for the majority of my life and was afraid it would never end, I haven't had an issue since I read the New Testament. It completely freed me from depression and addiction. It's hard for me to recommend, because so recently I used to get so annoyed/put off by people who told me to read the bible or look into Jesus. But it's the best thing that has ever happened to me, and it's the gift that keeps on giving. I wish you the very best.

[@hannasfaireys]

Sarah, you’re such an inspiration and a joy to watch, I have referred you on to so many friends because you keep it so real, we love you right back!

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

Thank you for the support! :)

[@momentmemos]

Not sure what it's called in English, but my boyfriend has a lamp that gradually lightens up in the morning, so it's easier to wake up. Light therapy lamp maybe? Super convenient here in Finland because it's pitch dark in the winter. I'm also trying to make the best out of this darkness by having nice christmas lights around and lighting candles whenever I can. I hope you will feel better!

[@Natterr]

I have issues with seasonal depression, too, which didn't fare well when I (a Texan) moved to Boston for school. I found that a therapy lamp REALLY helped me. Just having that light shine near you while you sit at your desk doing whatever can be a huge life-saver. Some of 'em run for hundreds of dollars, but if you dig around you can find some for just over thirty.

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

i'm glad to hear the lamp helped you! i will look into that for sure

[@nelman15]

I try to add plants and colors to my home to help beat the winter blues. I also occasionally make recipes from summertime, eat more citrus, go outside and try to volunteer.

[@lewgheebelle]

I also struggle with seasonal depression on top of regular depression. What's helped me this year has been discovering a love of baking and trying out new things. Which I know you already cook and experiment all the time. But for me it's been setting a goal-do this thing for a week and then a small rearward to look forward too. Like a couple weeks ago I decided I wasn't eating out or having any food I didn't make for two weeks. Then I treated myself to dinner at my favorite restaurant. Setting small attainable "challenges". Like maybe working on your music so many times a week for two weeks means that you can then get that new cookbook you've been eyeing. Or something like that.

[@meriellevania3081]

Hi Sarah! For seasonal depression I take extra vitamin D and have a happy light. You can turn them on especially on your desk while you edit and it makes a huge difference. I live up in Alaska so seasonal depression is no joke up here! Love your content!

[@padraiggarrihy8025]

Hey Sarah. I would recommend focusing on a gratitude practise daily to get over the holiday slump. That can be getting up and taking 5 minutes to listen to the noises of the morning and thinking about what you are most grateful for. The sounds of the birds / the access to clean water we have / the fantastic KZbin channel you have created... This focuses the mind on the positives which in turn makes it hard to think about all the bad stuff and lies we tell ourselves 😁 also - maybe volunteer over Xmas? Nothing major but like helping out at a food drive or somewhere locally does amazing things for my mindset. Service is great for a person's mood.

[@Britnizzle1]

This was really interesting to see behind the scenes stuff. Ive been thinking about starting a blog myself but idk. Thanks for sharing your day ❤

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

You should start one for sure! You can always use Wordpress or Blogger for free and just work on it casually and see if you enjoy it.

[@eflavell]

I couldn't remember which youtuber got me hooked on this sugar cookie sleigh ride tea but now I know it was you! I bought it last Tuesday and I've already drank almost all of it! Only four tea bags lrft haha. I add warm soy milk, truvia, and a drop of vanilla. So yummy.

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

Yesss I love adding soy milk and stevia as well. :) Now I need to go make a cup! And it's so funny because I initially learned about this tea from another KZbinr, Ingrid Nilsen, during one of her Vlogmas episodes.

[@estebanalvarez983]

I lived in L.A. for 6 years and I moved back to Chicago recently. For me, seasonal depression is common as well as the year-round blues. I also write music here and there. I just try to do things to distract me or find ways to express my emotions, whether it be art or poetry, aside from music. Spend time with people and do things that make you happy. My happy drink is chia limon pepino water with agave nectar with a small pinch of salt. Seems like you work really hard so reward yourself with some leisure time to enjoy a beautiful day when you can :)

[@jonothandoeser]

Seasonal Depression: I find myself most vulnerable to depression when I have to spend a lot of time alone. Don't get me wrong... I like being alone a lot more than most people. But there is a certain threshold of loneliness that takes me out of balance. I notice your day looked pretty alone, aside from the gym visit. But maybe there is a way for you to dial up your contact with people (face to face). It's amazing how being around humans can be good for humans sometimes. Good luck.

[@lisa.kitahara]

you're my favourite and the cutest !! all the feels about being lazy and filming recipes can relate 😂😵

[@terri_loves_plants5799]

I want the exact 3 cookbooks you mentioned! Cannot wait until you make and review some recipes from them! And yes girl you can sing!!❤

[@yasminag4249]

Hey Sarah, take the vitamin d regulary! It really helps me. And also selenium! I created some winter habits, which help most of the time. Hearing Harry Potter audiobooks (or what ever you are passioned about), trinking hot choclate, eat 2,3 cookies, calm down- and put on warm lights as much as possible. Maybe not as healthy as possible, but the cosyness helps me. And constantly telling myself, that the darkness outside will end and snow is something nice. Sometimes mantras are helpful ;) But i am not dealing with serious depression, just a kind of winter depression. So hopefully my "tips" helped a bit and I wish you the best! Love your videos :) Greets from Germany out of a ton of snow

[@tamitorossian7285]

Aw girl! Thanks for talking me up in your video

[@dubiousenthusiast]

I have seasonal depression too (on top of good ol' regular depression). Some days are worse than others. I sleep more and have less of an appetite, and tend to get very emotional over small things. It's also hard to get any work done. I have found that exercise does help, especially walking outside in the sun whenever possible. Drinking lots of water with citrus is good too. But quite honestly, sometimes you just need to lie in bed with some Ben & Jerry's PB Cookies non-dairy ice cream and watch Netflix until the day is over!

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

Yep, I totally feel you. With me, seasonal depression just makes me so unproductive with work. But hopefully getting back into exercise will give me a boost. :) And now I'm craving Ben and Jerry's haha.

[@dubiousenthusiast]

It balances out the extra exercise, right? LOL

[@michelledeater]

Generally you can find vital wheat gluten in the section where they keep baking supplies. It is commonly used in baking for breads. (Most of the grocery stores in my area do not keep it with the other bobs red mill displays)

[@mariannerady1137]

Winters are hard, I am so with you. Vit D is certainly a great first step, it has been making a big difference for me. I have been thinking about getting a daylight lamp, two friends have one and swear by it, one even has a second smaller version for travel

[@melissarogers8626]

I take D3 everyday. I take 400 in the "sunny months" and 1,000 in the winter months. Always take during a meal. Have you tried a therapy light? You can get them at Walmart, Target, Bed Bath and Beyond. Take care! 💕

[@moonshine4049]

Wow! What an amazing voice. So effortless. Love it! I sing like a sick cow. Lol. I used to really struggle alot, like A-LOT,with anxiety and depression. The winter months in Chicago after the holidays were horrendous for me. Then I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease. 😩 To reduce my inflammation I eliminated gluten and sugar & processed foods from my diet and started taking 6000 mg of D3, magnesium and iron. Without me realizing it, the first winter I went through was over and it wasn't awful. My anxiety is so much less. I take the supplement L-Theanine for anxious times. My depression is not perfect but is really under control. I don't know what will work for you but I am glad you are still searching. Thanks for the meal inspo!! Awesomeness!

[@Dudenawdude]

Thank you so much for giving us a peak into your daily life and process! It's so easy to think your favorite You tubers are these super human content making machines, and I love seeing the more human and personal side of things. Definitely my favorite YT channel in the game girl, you're awesome! 🌱💜

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

thanks so much :)

[@twolamevegans3591]

You’re my favorite vegan KZbinr! I’ve been on a fitness journey for 5 years and after being vegan for 5 months you’ve helped me stay sustainable and strong. Also you’re super cute and funny ❤️

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

Aw I'm so glad you enjoy the vids and that's so awesome that you're enjoying your healthy vegan lifestyle :) 💪

[@matthewweimer5861]

I saw that Field Roast cookbook on Amazon the other day. Can't wait for a review/trying out recipes video!

[@callmesg_16]

Aww, we love you!! Your videos always make me so excited, and your blog looks amazing. Keep it up, girl! ❤️

[@ConscientiousOmnivore]

Great video insight into your day. Good luck with the winter depression thing. Thankfully, I cannot relate but I will say that I feel a lot better when I still get outside regularly all through winter. I love running and think it really helps. I try to go out during the middle of the day if work allows for it and even though there is not much sunlight, I think the fresh air and the physical activity are helpful. The pasta looked great as well as the dinner!

[@diegoramirez9587]

Anytime I get the notification that you posted a new video, i get so excited! Question: how did you like the pre-workout? Did it get you through the work out? Lastly, on those depressive days, listen to "face up" by LIGHTS 💜

[@GrannyPantss]

I have SAD too, Sarah. I live in NE corner of Indiana and winters can be nonstop cloudy. I've gone so far just to pay for a tanning session only to open the tanning bed and just sit by the light for 15 minutes (and not tan due to melanoma concerns). There are boxes available for us, but they are pricey - you could probably afford it though. The best way to help get through the SAD season - is be outside in the sunshine as much and often as possible every chance you get. At least that seems to help me. I hope it helps you too.

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

Thank you. :) Sending love to you heading into the season too.

[@jc159533]

hi Sarita, for seasonal depression what works best for me is to keep up the exercise, so perhaps make sure you get back into that work out routine and be religious about it. Also, rest well. Good sleep and exercise, and the discipline of keeping those in a well organized routine will help your mind and soul.

[@sobunnyful]

Get a sad light, there brilliant. Just make sure not to use it for to long as it can cause headches. Start out at half an hour but its like having your own personal sun. My boyfriend suffers really badly with sad and i picked him up a light for £40 so not terrible. I also recommend meditation for depression really helps ^_^ but it does take a while to get into it just keep persevering, mindfulness and gratitude journals are also a life saver. From a fellow person who has suffered with severe depression over the years I hope this helps ♡ plus you are super awesome and your videos never fail to make me smile.

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

Aw thank you so so much. :) I really need to start meditating more regularly!

[@cayosopi720]

hey sarah ! i love you too you are amazing ! thank you for your exemple, love, and your experiences shared !

[@eatplantsloveanimals]

What's helped me is taking magnesium and starting therapy. I take magnesium glycinate powder 1 tsp 2x day in water. It's a little bitter, but you get used to it. Getting it in bulk powder is the most economical option. Magnesium is needed for over 300 processes in the body, including proper hormone and neurotransmitter synthesis. At least 80% of people are deficient because of poor diet and poor soils. I've suffered from depression, anxiety, and chronic insomnia for most of my life and it's made a huge difference for me. I also upped my vitamin D intake to 7000 IU because bloodwork indicated I was a bit low, even though I had been taking 5000 IU daily. I think most people take too little. You only absorb like 30% of what you take, so you should definitely take it everyday and more than you think. The body produces 10,000 IU from maximum sun exposure and they've even done studies where people took 100,000 IU without ill effects.

[@jodiwalper1771]

Hi Sarah, love your channel! Two things come to mind in reference to SAD. Light box use and cold showers. I know, the second suggestion sounds absurd, but according to my KZbin research cold showers can help alleviate depression, anxiety, and boost one's immune system among other things. Blessings to you!

[@aleahthenaturalist222]

Keep on being your positive, beautiful self

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

Ooh thank you!

[@Sara.Aspenvik]

So fun to see behind the scenes! Your dinner looked soo good! Made me a little sad about my pathetic lazy girl hummus sandwich haha. I don't have seasonal depression (just other problems 😂) but my CBT therapist got me to prioritise being outside/ taking walks at the brightest time of the day and that's been helping me feel better. And I live somewhere with 3 hours of "sunlight" so the sun isn't actually so bright and it still helps!

[@Revadalby859]

I just tested your peppermint chocolate granola recipe from the previous video and it was Amazing! Will be making a second batch tomorrow and will possible make a third to give away as a gift.

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

I'm so glad you liked it! :)

[@azugirl111]

Sarah's Vegan Kitchen can confirm, I made it too and it was delicious.. It's only been one whole day and it's almost gone 😭

[@klu222]

I'm from the pnw, and have definitely dealt with seasonal depression. I was fortunate enough to be able to modified my work schedule, and get in at 630-7 am and leave around 3:00 pm. This way I always get to see the sun, I make it an intention to get outside every day before it gets dark so I don't feel like I live in perpetual darkness. It's even helpful just to take a quick break, get outside for a bit. If you can't get outside go to the sunniest place in your home and soak in some rays through the window. Good luck my dear:)

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

thank you!

[@edwardkominski3629]

I have the same issue with pasta. I will keep eating until I explode.

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

my #1 vice 🍝

[@pinkhope84]

you definitly are one of my favorite youtuber, keep up the good work :)

[@MELLANIEL84]

I have depression/seasonal depression as well. I just bought an infrared mat from healthyline. It's supposed to help with a million things including depression and anxiety. I'm excited.

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

Ooh. I'll check that out.

[@a.o.3523]

Also, Sometimes I listen to 'Alan Watts' on KZbin. He's got an interesting take on anxiety. And also, plenty of running on the beach right next to the water in the sand! Especially at sunset. Not sure if it's possible for you, but try it. Yes, even in the winter.

[@rebeccahuber7824]

For me, having something to look forward to that is new and gets me outside of my home, thinking outside of the box, is important. I signed up for Krav Maga (self-defense) and have been doing that for the last 12 weeks, twice a week. I really love it. I’ll get books from the library on topics that I wan to learn more about, like nutrition & health. Otherwise, if I don’t have something to do, something to keep my mind busy, it’s so easy to just be a sloth when the sun goes down at 5 p.m. and watch Netflix and rot on the couch. But winter is like half of our year, so I refuse to do that. lol

[@AletheaTodaro]

Omg I died when you put the pasta in the bowl with out draining it. I do the same thing 😂😂 ain't no body got time for extra dishes #lifeofayoutuber

[@shannon2748]

I do the same...mostly I eat pasta soup for starters, and sometimes, I don't mind a little water in my pasta.

[@MaraBeauty]

Gosh i love it when you sing!

[@levelupyourlifestyle1070]

For some reason, seasonal depression has been at its worst this year. In terms of coping with it, taking Vitamin D supplements have been helping a bit. I also found that increasing the intake of cacao for the extra magnesium and maca powder has been helping as well. Any excuse to eat chocolate, really 🍫.

[@fionahuffman6347]

I agree i also like light therapy very helpful

[@lovely87ym]

Meditation is what helped me understand depression and anxiety. It has changed my life try it ten minutes you will see the difference even after a week. Trust, surrender and accept. Trust the process of getting to know what makes you sad and happy surrender to the things you have no control over and surrender your pain to the universe or whatever you believe in and lastly accept cause sometimes life gives you what you need and not what you want or plain and simple is just life and gets hard sometimes. The times you feel depress turn everything off for ten minutes and surrender to be able to understand and when you don’t understand why the feelings are there trust that it is temporary and you must let go and trust that the universe got your back.

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

thanks for the very thoughtful advice. :)

[@TheWonderfulSofia]

Yes

[@ohio_nights]

I feel you so hard. It seems to get worse every year for me. I live in Cincinnati and we have extremely hot summers with harsher winters. The thing that makes it absolutely horrible is the complete lack of sun. We don’t even really see it for a few months before spring hits. It’s awful because I get a glimpse of it during my whopping 10 minute commute to work and that’s it. We don’t have windows in my building, so when I come out at the end of my shift, it’s pitch black. I’m really struggling.

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

Aw. Sending you love. ❤️

[@madddoll8685]

Luurrrvee your channel! Thanks for the inside look at your day-to-day! I work freelance from home part time and I TOTES get how meh and alone it can feel always being indoors (esp. in the winter). Maybe try an outdoor winter activity? All else fails, go watch some stand up :) I really need to start working out but I can't seem to want to leave the house so thanks for making me wanna start that again.

[@michellet4767]

I’m so late to the game but I just found you and I’m so obsessed 😩 My doctor and I usually try to take a more holistic approach to issues before going a medicinal route and I use St Johns Wort for my anxiety and depression. It is literally a game changer and has tons of extra health benefits I would definitely look into that!

[@Jaavagirl]

I suffer with anxiety and depression too, I find at this time of year when everyone is so super hectic that I like to find myself 30 mins of just “me time” I have a bubble bath, play my fav music, have a naughty snack and just allow myself time to reflect, to breathe and to remember that it’s ok to feel anxiety ❤️ lots of love Sarah, we’re all here for you ❤️

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

thank you so much :)

[@joyclendening9908]

Getting some time in an infrared sauna would really help with seasonal depression. They are amazing, some gyms or spas have them you just want to ask if it's infrared or steam. Steam is nice but it won't have the same effect as the infrared on your depression.

[@misslizzie4ever]

I've heard you can get specific lights to help Seasonal Affective Disorder so maybe look into that!

[@Oaphish]

"not using a colander, because I don't want to wash it" finally a relatable youtuber. same girl. also feel u on the lack of self control when it comes to pasta.

[@valeriamadrid1584]

I reallly enjoy your videos beause you are so real and relatable.

[@Lowzenza4]

It's not fair that you can cook amazingly and sing like a superstar :( :( :(

[@yesxiloveyouthemost]

Yay for more personal videos which include singing! Thank you so much, I loved it! :D

[@ilyalexevans123]

There’s mood lamps or salt lamps that help with seasonal depression! My friend has seasonal depression and she uses them and she loves them :)

[@samv9425]

I'm so happy when I see you uploaded :)

[@vagra57]

Would you considering renting out your apartment in the winter time? This would allow you to travel and work remotely when the winter comes in. Moving to South East Asia has had a fantastic impact on my life impart because of the year long sunshine. Life doesn’t grown in the winter, who’s to say we’re meant to live in such environments? Just because we CAN live in could weather doesn’t mean it’s what’s best for us.

[@Olibelus]

I love watching your videos whilst I eat. :D Awesome and informative Vlog as always, and your voice is absolutely beautiful, wow!

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

Thank you!

[@liamf3598]

Love the vlog style! Sometimes it's best to just document rather than create. Now specifically on seasonal depression I haven't tried much. I actually laughed out loud when you said you get seasonal depression on top of regular depression, sadly because I know exactly what you mean. Like a double decker unnecessary-suffering sandwich. I've made a lot of progress over the last couple years simply by doing self development work. Similar to Perception Trainers, I like the channel Actualized.org which has great ideas on the subject. Recently, a technique that I've tried practicing more deliberately is focusing on what I'm grateful for rather than what's shitty. It seems too simple, but gratitude is key. There's way more to be thankful for than sad about, although it's so easy to get trapped in cynicism. It has helped me to simply take time in the morning or whenever to think about or write a list on the things that I have, not what I don't. I'm stuck in the wintery months of NJ, but I have shelter, a loving family, independence, food, good health, and my Life.

[@curiouscamellia5470]

Your singing voice makes me cry!!!! I LOVE you!!!

[@DamnTastyVegan]

Vitamin D has done wonders for my seasonal depression. I live in Michigan where it’s the second worst winter in the U.S because of lack of sunshine. Since taking vit D regularly it’s helped me to manage my depression. Also, remembering not to isolate myself and to see or talk to friends and family helps a lot as well.

[@billyveganmecanic4440]

Love these videos. Actually, all your videos are just awesome. One advice I could give you with seasonal depression is to keep yourself distracted. It works for me since I live alone and it helps me get things done. I wish you all the best and hope you continue smiling :)

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

Thank you so much :)

[@michellecrowell4241]

Don't ever stop singing!!!! Love! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@pattyturner4313]

Christmas can be a real bummer for people who have a tendency for depression AND especially for you since you have just recently lost your Dad. What worked for me is staying very active, get out of the house and hang out with friends who understand and love you and will help you stay positive. ❤️

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

Absolutely. All great tips. Being busier this year with my own projects has helped a lot so far. :)

[@KeepTheDoubleSpace]

Light therapy, hands down. You can get SAD 'happy' lights pretty inexpensively these days. Make sure you have it on for at least an hour a day. It helps so much!

[@rockywil]

Okay but why is Sarah so pretty😍 and her voiceee, you should sing more often!

[@aalexkazamm]

I take D3 too and being consistent with it (plus being on an anti-depressant) has really helped :) also making time for yourself and practicing self care really helps me. Hope it helps ❤️

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

thank you :)))

[@twopotvegan6645]

Love your positivity!

[@legreenradio]

Sarah! My name is Sarah too :) Thank you for all of your amazing and inspiring recipes. And also thanks for speaking so openly about your mental health struggles, I think you help more people than you know, myself included. I was just curious, do you do all of your video recording by yourself, or do you have help? I wasn’t sure if you live with roommates or family that help with the video angles and such.

[@WarChortle]

There are lamps that mimic sunlight that you can buy. I've looked into these since I've heard positive things about them.

[@kierstensmokowski9794]

Idk if it's the placebo affect or what, but when I remember my B12 supplement I have better days. Seasonal depression also hits me really hard and I plummet after New Years. I am hopeful that this new one I got from WFM will help. I love this video- you're so honest and my fave! Love ya girl!!!! 😘

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

I'm pretty inconsistent with my b12 supplementation, so maybe I should focus on that a little more! And thank you so much :) You're the sweetest and always so supportive

[@Miwwu12]

Here in Finland we have a store in which you can buy things like gluten flour and nutritional yeast as much or as little as you like by shoveling them into a paper or plastic bag 😊 It's awesome. Thought this might be interesting to you.

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

I wish we had a bulk place like that too so I could bring my own jars and bags! sounds so cool!

[@mschlm]

Yesss please do a video of cookbook reviews :)

[@sarahwoodcock2889]

I don't usually comment but in regards to anyone with depession, I struggled for 17 years, then was given the book Ask And It Is Given by Abraham-Hicks and have not had a problem since. (It's been 7 years now) Just trying to help

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

Thanks! I love Abraham-Hicks' videos but I haven't read their book yet!

[@sarahwoodcock2889]

Sarah's Vegan Kitchen 😊

[@inmimisbowl]

Oh waw that is a lot of work! It's always interesting to see what goes on behind the scenes. I appreciate you putting so much effort into your videos and blogs, but (yes im that annoying grandma) take enough rest okay

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

Aw thank yooou.

[@aaran2329]

Sarah, I'm so glad I watched this just now! The Field Roast book looks amazing so I went and ordered it right away and looks like it still has a chance of arriving here before Christmas YAYY so I will surprise my partner with it cause he loves cooking and he's been trying different Seitan recipes lately (the first one he ever tried was your one from your Corned Beef video - cause I showed it to him and he thought it looked good! - and it was very tasty indeed!) :) Thanks again!

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

Omg that's awesome!! I hope you love the Field Roast book too!

[@teyarose]

My Dr has me taking a weekly prescription strength D3 pill and suggested sun lamps (like for a snake or indoor plants) because after years working overnight I can go months without seeing sunlight. He said my blood test showed D so low that it wouldn't even register on the machine at

[@sweetnessfollows4471]

This. Get a therapy light - I don't remember what they're called. Also, for me, St. John's wort tincture/extract has always worked for me for any kind of depression I can't get out of. Lots of dark leafy greens. citrus/oranges, and omegas/walnuts might be helpful too. 💓 Also, winter is a time to slow down, not be so outwardly driven ...so be gentle with yourself.

[@ginnywilliams8159]

This is awesome! Thank you! Love seeing behind the scenes. I just started my channel a month ago and dang its hard work! :)

[@CinnamonHi]

Not gonna lie, I totally appreciated that you strained pasta with a spoon. I do that all the time 😂 Aint nobody got time for dishes! That aside, I can’t believe I didn’t realize you had a blog! Off to the blog-kingdom I go! Edit: S.A.D is never easy! You can always come and talk to us whenever you need! It’s excellent that you’re taking vitamin D, make sure you are getting enough (the daily minimum is 1000 iu). The sun will shine again and the warm days will soon be back, hang in there lovie! Xx

[@SarahsVeganKitchen]

I do! I actually just redesigned it in October so it's still quite simple but I'm excited to add more content. :) And thank you so much! I think from everyone's advice I need to start supplementing more often.