Posted on

Let There Be Light! Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder and the Benefits of Light Therapy

Benefits of Light Therapy

Seasonal Affective Disorder and the Benefits of Light Therapy

When winter hits each year, people enjoy the holidays, winter sports, and hot chocolate. But cold weather and shorter days also bring seasonal affective disorder (SAD) for some people.

If you suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), then light therapy may be for you. Read on to learn about SAD and the benefits of light therapy.

Seasonal affective disorder happens when people live in cold climates with short days and little sunlight. SAD is a type of depression that requires treatment in the form of therapy and, yes, sunlight.

Luckily, sunlight isn’t the only cure for SAD. Light therapy boxes can treat or cure seasonal affective disorder for many people living in cold, dark climates. 

Read on to learn more about the benefits of light therapy and how they can help you overcome seasonal affective disorder. 

What Is Light Therapy?

Light therapy is a treatment for seasonal affective disorder. It involves using artificial light to help people overcome depression caused by lack of sunlight.

During light therapy, you will sit next to a light therapy box. The box emits bright, artificial light that acts like natural sunlight. 

It’s best to use light therapy boxes in the morning when you wake up. Don’t look directly into the box and keep it around 40-60 cms from your body.

In the beginning, you should only use your light therapy box for short intervals, around 15 minutes at a time. As your brain grows accustomed to it, you can use the box for longer.

What Are the Benefits of Light Therapy for SAD?

Up to three percent of Canadians will experience severe seasonal affective disorder in their lifetime, while an additional 15 percent will experience mild SAD in their lifetime. 

If you’re someone who suffers from SAD, light therapy may be the answer for you. Here are some of the benefits of using a light therapy box.

Improved Mood

SAD is a type of depression, so if you can treat SAD with light therapy, your mood will significantly improve.

Light therapy awakens your brain by providing artificial light. Without light, your brain will be stuck in a bit of a limbo, making you feel depressed.

Better Sleep

Using a light therapy box tells your brain that it’s daytime and it needs to wake up. Without this light, your brain will feel tired all day, making you less likely to exert energy throughout the day. 

Once night hits, you’ll feel tired but may have trouble falling asleep. If you use light therapy, you will be more active during the day, which will help you sleep better at night.

More Energy

Because you’ll be getting better sleep at night and feeling less depressed each day, you’ll have a lot more energy throughout the day, even if the sun doesn’t make an appearance.

Choosing a Light Therapy Box

You don’t need a prescription to get a light therapy box. You can find great light therapy boxes from online pharmacies that will deliver right to your door.

Using the box incorrectly can have adverse effects, so be sure to follow the directions provided with your box for the best results. 

Start Experiencing the Benefits of Light Therapy Today!

You don’t need to suffer from seasonal affective disorder any longer. It’s time to take action and utilize the benefits of light therapy by purchasing your box today.

Contact us today to learn more about light therapy boxes and how they can help you overcome seasonal affective disorder this year.