No Excuses - Wednesday - 12/21/16

A Little Light on a SAD Subject

Winter solstice—the shortest day in a season of long, dark nights. Many people suffer from the “winter blues”or its more severe form, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).According to the National Mental Health Association,an estimated 25 percent of the population suffers from mild winter SAD, and about 5 percent, from its more severe form.SAD can affect anyone.The risk is highest for young people and women.

Common symptoms include depression, sadness, or moodiness; changes in sleep and eating habits;cravings for sugar or starchy foods; increased appetite, followed by weight gain; low energy and fatigue. SAD sufferers can’t easily adjust their daily biological clock to shifts in sunlight patterns.

The reasons are not fully understood. But melatonin, a sleeprelated hormone also linked to depression,may be a factor.The body produces more melatonin during short,dark days.

Make the winter solstice a time to get help for SAD.
• Seek a physician’s help first—light therapy or medication for severe cases.
• Physical activity helps relieve depression—especially walking or other outdoor daytime activities.
• Spend time outdoors. Or arrange your indoor space to bring more sunlight in.

I do suffer from S.A.D. but oddly enough might eat a bit less than in joyous summer. Depression is funny that way. Sometimes grieving widows and others don't feel like eating much. Need to fire up my blue light thing in morning. I have been suffering a lot in the mornings and do get out to walk at first light to help some.

Have fun with your daughter.

Our yoga teacher reminded us to be nice to ourselves in a renewal way during solstice.