Why Winter Light Matters
How Light Lifts Mood
Hi, and welcome to the resumption of our weekly blogs, designed to help you and your dog start each week more cheerfully and knowledgeably.
This week I’ll explain why many of us experience a drop in mood during the short winter days, and in my next post I’ll offer some practical tips to help you redress any winter dysphoria you may experience.
Back in July, I encouraged you to capitalise on the natural light that’s so abundant during the summer. Why did I make that suggestion?
Natural light is a true panacea, a major contributor to both physical and psychological wellbeing. Its assets are many.
First, light plays a central role in sleep regulation. During the day, natural light keeps us awake and alert. Then when night falls, the ‘master clock’ in our brain, which directs circadian rhythm or the sleep-wake cycle, initiates the production of melatonin, and this in turn encourages us to feel drowsy.
Outdoor light also boosts the production of Vitamin D—often referred to as the sunshine vitamin—which regulates calcium and phosphate levels that are necessary to maintain healthy bones, teeth and muscles. Vitamin D also encourages the normal functioning of our immune system—a crucial asset during flu and Covid spikes!
Third, light encourages the production of serotonin. This all-important neurotransmitter promotes healthy digestion, improves memory function, lifts mood, and encourages good quality sleep. Serotonin is in fact so central to mood regulation that one of the main functions of an often-prescribed group of antidepressants (the SSRI’s) is to increase serotonin levels.
Finally, when the amount of light is limited, some individuals suffer Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD. Those afflicted experience low mood, exhaustion, and an inability to concentrate. Luckily, their symptoms can be eased, and exposure to light is the key.
In my next blog I will explain how, by capitalising on the light that is available during winter and when necessary supplementing it with artificial lighting, you can get the most out of winter light and feel as good as possible.
In the meantime, why not keep a daily mood diary so when I give you my tips you’ll know how best to apply them to your own situation? At bedtime, make a note of when you felt best and when you were at your lowest that day. For each, jot down the time, where you were, and with whom—including of course your dog!
Until next time, my very best wishes,
Linda