Chicago, Illinois – Valentine’s weekend across the Midwest states, including Illinois and Indiana, is prompting renewed focus on winter wellness and emotional balance.
Health experts say serotonin — a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, sleep, appetite and cognitive function — plays a central role in maintaining mental well-being, particularly during the region’s coldest and darkest stretch of the year. Research shows approximately 90% of the body’s serotonin is produced in the gut, with the remainder synthesized in the brain.
Balanced serotonin levels are associated with improved mood stability and may help reduce symptoms of seasonal anxiety and depression across Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Missouri and Iowa.
Here are five natural strategies experts recommend this weekend:
Eat tryptophan-rich foods. Midwest staples such as turkey, Great Lakes fish, tofu, pumpkin seeds and tart cherry juice contain tryptophan, an amino acid used to produce serotonin. Pairing these foods with complex carbohydrates may enhance absorption.
Get moving. Walking Chicago’s Lakefront Trail, exploring Indianapolis’ Canal Walk, hiking Minnesota’s Minnehaha Falls Park or visiting St. Louis’ Forest Park can help increase serotonin release. Even 20 minutes of aerobic activity may provide measurable mood benefits.
Seek sunlight. Morning light exposure along Lake Michigan, at Milwaukee’s Bradford Beach or across Des Moines’ Gray’s Lake Park supports vitamin D production, which plays a role in serotonin regulation. Experts recommend 15 to 30 minutes daily when possible.
Reduce stress. Yoga studios in Madison, meditation groups in Columbus and time outdoors in Michigan’s Sleeping Bear Dunes may help regulate stress levels.
Prioritize sleep. Health professionals recommend seven to nine hours nightly to maintain neurotransmitter balance.
For college students in Ann Arbor or young professionals commuting through downtown Chicago, small routine adjustments may offer meaningful emotional benefits during winter.
This Valentine’s weekend, experts say consistent habits can strengthen resilience across the Midwest.
