This weekend of November 5th and 6th the United States will turn clocks back one hour. It is a time when the days are shorter and there is a longer period of darkness within a 24 hour block of time.
Some people experience a shift in their mood due to the days being shorter. The term known as “Seasonal Affective Disorder” or SAD terms emotive response to the change of season as it pertains to lessor exposure to sunlight and colder temperatures during the fall and winter months.
One probable cause of this effect is linked to the circadian rhythm and the effects upon it by the reduced level of sunlight. “Science Daily” (www.sciencedaily,com) reports that the circadian rhythm is a 24 hour cycle that is important in determining our sleeping and eating patterns. This affects our brain wave activity hormone production, cell regeneration and other biological activities.
One way to start dealing with this is to take advantage of sunny days and add morning walks outside in sunny days daily if you don’t do so already. Socialize while doing so by seeking out friends and neighbors within your community to join you. Connect with people who you like to be around and continue these walks throughout the year.
Provide your body with nourishment from foods containing Omega 3 fatty acids. Fish and nuts are an excellent source of this protein. Provision from mind-body therapies will enhance your recovery from this very real disorder which encompasses feelings of hopelessness low self-esteem, poor concentration, low energy and problems with eating and/or sleeping. These therapies are Yoga, Meditation, Guided Imagery and Message Threapy.
Your Primary Care Physician is a first-line approach for discussion, diagnosis and treatment options. In the meantime and in addition to your medical intervention(s), a health coach can help you through this maze of non-medical approaches to assist in getting you through the “tough times” of SAD.
Contact Inquiry@femtique.org to submit a request for a Health Coach. Feel free to comment and/or share about your thoughts and experiences regarding SAD on this this blog. e-Nurse Femtique Judith
