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The holidays can be a joyous time of year. But for many people, the winter festivities are often accompanied by an onslaught of negative feelings and emotions that leave them feeling depressed. Recent studies indicate that these feelings may be linked to a lack of light rather than emotional associations.
The New York Times reported recently that a condition known as "seasonal affective disorder," (SAD), may be the culprit behind much of the negativity that occurs around this time of year. Researchers found that the waning sunlight affected the secretion of melatonin in the brain, which resulted in a decrease in energy and symptoms associated with depression.
One remedy that is being used successfully to combat the effects of SAD is the use of artificial light known as phototherapy. Exposure to bright light has a significant impact on reducing the negative symptoms of SAD. The standard course is 30 minutes of fluorescent soft-white light at 10,000 lux a day.
If you find yourself feeling down during the holidays, you might want to try this simple, but effective, remedy to combat feelings of sadness or lack of energy. Or you could just head off for a sunny tropical vacation. (This would be my choice if time and my budget allowed.)
Many Blessings on you and your loved ones this holiday season.
Tim
Tags: depression, health, light therapy, phototherapy, SAD, sadness, seasonal affective disorder
