Gardeners everywhere are enjoying the last of the warm summer rays. Being out in the garden definitely frees up the mind from any domestic clutter and during the summer months we all clamour to be there.
If you are like me you will take your coffee out first thing and walk around and probably be out there with a glass of wine at sunset to catch the last few rays at dusk.
Unless it is extraordinarily hot I will seek to be in the sunshine all of the time because of the feeling of well being it gives me.
But for some gardeners the sun is hugely important. During the winter months when the day length is at it's shortest and the dark wet and gloomy nights seem to last forever, many of us suffer with SAD or Seasonal Affective Disorder.
The disease is very common and especially in women which can start as early as their late teens leading to prolonged depression in later life.
Symptoms are a generally feeling of disinterest in everything. Depression and a willingness to sleep longer. A desire to eat more including very sweet things.
In severe cases a feeling of uselessness, guilt and hopelessness is common and sufferers may even feel suicidal.
Light open spaces
It is not a coincidence that people are just happy in the springtime because winter is over. The increased light levels do not just provide a longer warmer day but are also stimulating our brains and giving us a feeling of well being too.
I remember walking into greenhouses on my travels with my job and instantly feeling invigorated by the light streaming through the glass and reflection from the wall behind.
Light therapy
There is a lot of good evidence to suggest that an hour of your day sat in intensely illuminated room will perk you up.
This is known as light therapy and as little as just one hour every day through the winter will help to ease those winter blues.
If you are feeling a little below par on a gloomy day then it may be worth checking out The Seasonal Affective Disorder Association website.
The next time you are feeling blue on a dark winters day there may be more to it than just being glum.
Recent Comments