The nights are drawing in, the days are getting shorter so our exposure to natural sunlight is reduced as well. A lack – or reduction – of sunlight means our bodies produce less serotonin, the brain chemical that affects our mood. Research has also shown that less light alters our brain’s balance of melatonin, a chemical that we produce at night that helps to govern our sleep patterns and mood. Those who are badly affected use lightboxes but we can all benefit by getting as much light as possible as this article in The Guardian shows. For daytime, make at least one room at home as bright as possible and get outside as much as you can (natural light regulates our circadian clock, helping us sleep at night), exercise (improves your mood). At night, keep lights dim; listen to your body clock (if it’s saying ‘I’m sleepy’, don’t fight it) and stay away from screens for at least 2 hours before bed. How are you affected at this time? Do you dread the dark nights or do you relish the season?
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