.png)
It's a fact of life that we all get depressed from time to time. Being inside and not getting natural sunlight is not healthy for our minds or bodies. There is no substitution for the health benefits of natural sunlight, but a light box may be a good alternative when you can't get outside or you live in an area with little sunlight in the winter time.
As the seasons change and the days get gloomy a light box helps mimic outdoor light. It can cause a chemical change in the brain that eases the symptoms of SAD, Seasonal Affective Disorder, and lifts your mood. According to the Mayo Clinic, Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that typically occurs each year during fall and winter. Use of a light box may help you battle the blues and get you back to your chipper self.
Light treatment involves sitting in front of a specialized 10,000 LUX light lamp for twenty to thirty minutes. These specialized lamps are designed to put out light that mimics the sun. Sunlight helps our body’s produce melatonin and serotonin. Sitting in front of a light therapy lamp will help with the production of these needed hormones, as well as possibly alleviating depression symptoms.
Light boxes deliver a dose of bright light to treat symptoms of SAD and blue moods. One of the great things about light therapy is that you can buy a 10,000 Lux Lamp for around $40.00 so it's worth a try. If you work in an office building and aren't' able to get natural sunlight in the morning then try a Lux Lamp at your desk while you work. Check with your doctor before starting light therapy and make sure it's a good option for you. Don't start light therapy without checking with your optometrist if you have any eye issues.
Try It Out:
Ideally within the first hour after you wake up
At your desk at work in the morning
Sit in front of lamp or have it on your desk for about 20 to 30 minutes
About 20 to 24 inches away from you but follow the manufacturer's instructions
Have your eyes open, but don't look directly into the light
There are different types of light therapy that treat a variety of issues, so here's a quick run down.
White Light: According to a study at the School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, sitting in front of a white light box for 30 minutes alleviated the symptoms of depression.
Blue Light:
The Journal of Dermatological Treatments found that 20 minutes in front of a blue light reduced acne. It also increases alertness so make sure to put your phone down an hour before you plan on going to bed.
Red - Infrared Light:
Studies found that this light is best for recovery and preventing muscle fatigue. It also can increase your testosterone levels according to Biomedical Research.
If you're in an environment or have work conditions that limit your exposure to natural sunlight then give light therapy a try. It may be the cure for fighting those winter blues and keep you smiling on cloudy days.
Stay Healthy Fam....
The content contained in this article is for information purposes only, and is not meant to be a substitute or replacement for professional advice and medical consultation. It is just shared as information only, and with the understanding that Directional Force, LLC, (Directional Force) is not engaged in the provision or rendering of medical advice or services whatsoever. You unilaterally understand and agree that Directional Force shall not be liable for any claim, loss, or damage arising out of the use of, or reliance upon any content or information in this article or any article provided by Directional Force. Please seek professional medical advice prior to engaging in, or undertaking any of the content, exercises, advice, and workouts provided by Directional Force.