As the days get shorter and there are more rainy days coming our way, I am feeling a little less energetic and cheerful than usual. To prevent the fall and winter blues, I am trying to get outside in the sunshine every morning, spending time with friends, and being more careful about my “sleep hygiene.” What I mean by this is that I am making more of a point to go to bed and get up at the same time every day, avoiding eating and working too close to bedtime, and steering clear of stimulants like caffeine. While I am only moderately affected this time of year, other people get seriously depressed by fall and winter weather every year. The clinical name for this condition is Seasonal Affective Disorder. Natural treatments including light therapy, adequate vitamin D intake, and exercising early in the day are a good start to treating SAD, but seek professional guidance with a naturopathic doctor or other licensed healthcare provider if you think you might suffer from this condition.
Margaret Philhower, ND
