Jun 28, 2026 · 3 min read

Finding Balance in the Light: How Microdosing Can Help with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) during Summer Solstice

As a lover of sunshine and warm days, I have to admit that I'm often at a loss when the summer solstice arrives and the heat becomes almost unbearable. But it's not just the sweltering temperatures that I'm sensitive to – it's also the emotional shifts that come with the longest day of the year. For those of us with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), the summer solstice can be just as daunting as the winter months.

I remember feeling restless and anxious during the summer solstice last year, even though I was surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant flowers. It was as if my body was still craving the coziness and security of the winter months, when it was acceptable to curl up with a good book and a cup of tea. But as the sun beat down on me, I felt trapped and overwhelmed, like I was stuck in a never-ending cycle of heat and anxiety.

It was during this time of confusion that I stumbled upon the concept of microdosing. I'd heard about it before, but never thought it applied to me – after all, I'd always associated psychedelics with counterculture and rebellion, not with finding balance in my own life. But as I delved deeper into the world of microdosing, I discovered that it wasn't just about getting high – it was about using small doses of medication to recalibrate my system, to find a sense of calm and clarity in the midst of chaos.

Finding a Sense of Normalcy in the Heat

As I began to microdose, I started to notice a shift in my perspective. The heat that had once felt suffocating now felt manageable, even enjoyable. I found myself spending more time outdoors, exploring the beauty of nature without feeling drained and overwhelmed. And when I did need to retreat to the comfort of my air-conditioned home, I felt more at ease, more able to tackle the tasks and worries that had been weighing me down.

But it wasn't just about physical comfort – it was also about emotional balance. With SAD, I'd often find myself struggling with feelings of despair and hopelessness, especially during the summer months when the light feels so intense. Microdosing helped me tap into a deeper sense of calm and compassion, a sense that I could handle whatever challenges came my way. And when the darkness crept in – as it inevitably did – I found that I was better equipped to face it, to find the beauty in the shadows and the light.

Practical Wisdom for Finding Balance

So, how can you start microdosing to find balance during the summer solstice?

Start small: Begin with a tiny dose – just a pinch of powder or a few drops of liquid – and see how it makes you feel.

Listen to your body: Pay attention to how you're feeling, both physically and emotionally. If you feel anxious or uncomfortable, stop and reassess.

Find a quiet space: When taking your microdose, create a peaceful and calming environment – soft music, comfy pillows, a soothing scent.

Connect with nature: Use the summer solstice as an opportunity to spend more time outdoors, connecting with the beauty of the natural world.

The summer solstice can be a challenging time for those of us with SAD, but it doesn't have to be. By incorporating microdosing into our self-care regime, we can find a sense of balance and normalcy in the midst of the heat and light. And as I look out at the vibrant flowers and lush greenery surrounding me, I'm reminded that even in the darkest moments, there is always beauty to be found – if we only know where to look.

With love and light, Lareina