What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

SAD is a form of depression that people typically experience when there is less sunlight, during the fall and winter. Having less sunlight affects our circadian rhythms and can lead to a drop in serotonin levels, which is the neurotransmitter that affects mood, sleep, anxiety and even OCD issues. Furthermore, less sunlight can also lead to increased levels of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep and drowsiness. Finally, less sunlight causes less natural vitamin D to be absorbed by the body which can increase feelings of  fatigue and sadness.

But there is light in this dark tunnel!!!

Here are some ways to support your well being and counter SAD during the winter months.

1. Light Therapy. Getting more exposure to natural light on clear, sunny days. Make time to either be outside or in a window with full light exposure and look to the sky. DO NOT look directly into the sun but rather look at the bright blue sky for half an hour, this will give you natural light exposure. If natural light exposure during the winter is not an option, invest in a light therapy box.
2. Acupuncture. Help balance your brain chemistry and hormones with regularly scheduled acupuncture treatments. Some patients come for a seasonal “tune up” treatment at the seasonal transition dates (the equinox dates: March 20th, September 20th and the solstice dates: December 21st and June 21st, these “landmark dates” can make it easier to keep track of when it is time for a tune up.) Some patients need more support so they come once a month or every 2 weeks or even every week!
3. Supplementing. vitamin D can help support vitamin D deficiency which is common during the winter. I like Nordic Naturals Arctic Cod Liver Oil gel caps. It uses naturally occurring vitamin D and A which helps the D be assimilated into the tissue better. Mineral supplementation can also help steady your mood. Mezotrace Cal/Mg is a 100 percent natural, mineral-rich carbonate compound of calcium, magnesium and trace elements. It contains 11 of the known 17 essential minerals for optimum health, and 64 minerals altogether.
4. Breath. Getting oxygen to the lungs stimulates movement of QI (your vital energy.) Chinese medicine explains some aspects of depression– literally as depressed Qi. Energy that is not moving, or stuck, is depressed Qi. Breathing exercises or cardio exercise helps bring oxygen to your lungs and your blood which builds QI. So get moving!  Walking, jumping jacks, jump rope, dancing, and even laughter (think laugh yoga) can move your stuck Qi.
5. Finally, if you feel like you need additional tools and support, consider reaching out to a therapist.