Living in Seattle this time of year, there is not much natural light to be found. Until the winter solstice, which takes place around December 22nd, we are losing more and more precious minutes of light as each day passes. I estimate that the sun is rising around 7:30 am and setting between 4:15 and 4:30 pm.

The days are short!

It is this time of year that Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) descends on many people. Perhaps all you want to do is sleep? Maybe you just can’t get out of bed? Maybe your mood is depressed and/or you lack your normal levels of energy? SAD can be felt in many many ways on a daily basis during this time of year.

Oh light! Where are you?

I have heard that people pull out their “Happy Lamps” this time of year. This is a special light that one sits in front of and bathes in light specifically meant to combat the effects of SAD. Many people have related that it helps alleviate their symptoms during this time of year.

If you have SAD this time of year, perhaps a Happy Lamp that allows you to bathe in light may be helpful to you. During breakfast, pulling out the lamp may be a way to start your day off with energy and a mood lift as we face these natural dark days.