Nobody likes getting outdoors more than we do, and we struggle during our long, frigid winters here in Canada.
Up to 3% of Canadians can experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which is a subtype of major depressive disorder characterized by recurrent depressive episodes that occur at specific times of the year. Recognized as a real medical condition by medical professionals, SAD typically starts in the fall or early winter months when daylight hours decrease significantly and persists until the arrival of spring when the days get longer.
Symptoms can vary but are usually characterized by low moods, lack of energy, appetite changes, difficulty concentrating, sleep disruptions, social withdrawal, and irritability. SAD can even cause physical issues like headaches, body aches, and digestive problems.
So, how do you beat the winter blues?
Managing SAD can involve a combination of lifestyle adjustments, self-care practices, and professional treatments. We prioritize staying active, maintaining a healthy diet, sticking to routines, getting therapy when needed, taking vitamins, practicing meditation, and socializing.
In addition to these strategies, we incorporate light therapy, an affordable way to mimic natural sunlight to help regulate mood and sleep patterns. Our Kala Therapy Lamp is a multifunctional 10,000 lux LED light, offering a luminous glow that imitates an impressive 98% of natural sunlight. With regular use, users experience improved mood, energy, and focus. People even reported positive impacts on depression, insomnia, and overall sleep quality!
Throughout the winter, we usually spend 20-30 minutes every morning with our Kala Lamp to help trick our bodies out of their cold weather responses. So, if you’re struggling with the winter blues, try lighting up your life with Kala.
Even though winters make it more difficult, we still try to get outside as often as possible to increase our exposure to natural light. This, in turn, improves our moods and energy levels. Our favourite ways to do this are going for walks and ice skating.
Remember that listening to your body and prioritizing self-care during the winter months is essential. Finding strategies that work best for you may require some experimentation, so be patient and compassionate with yourself as you navigate through the season.