Have You Seen The Light?

Way back in 1958, Eddie Cochran told us “there ain’t no cure for the summertime blues”.  It wasn’t ‘til the 80’s that a more prevalent problem came to light – Seasonal Affective Disorder: SAD.  The symptoms are many, ranging from impaired cognitive powers to reduced libido. Not to mention the blues.

Some researchers claim that we are not so far-removed as we’d like to think from our mammalian cousins who require a hibernation period.  Others state that the disturbance of our daily pattern is responsible.  Either way the long hours of darkness are to blame and upping our light exposure is the best remedy.

Those of us who have one principle place of work, and who at this time of year arrive and leave in semi-darkness need to use the weekend wisely to tank up

For example:

The shopping: forget the supermarket, wrap up warm and dry and go to the out-door market, or at least along the high street shops where you’re in and out.
Sleeping in: had a late night Friday or Saturday? Consider getting up earlier (well, 9ish) and taking a nap later in the afternoon, when it’s already getting dark.
Eyewear: where possible remove (sun-) glasses.  Brave the low sun’s rays.  It seems that the most effective absorption of light is through the naked eye.
For extreme cases an actual light-box is available
And your kids will be delighted to note the joyous thankfulness with which you stand on the sidelines during hockey/football practise!

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