Season of Light

               “There are two ways of spreading light; one to be a candle or mirror that reflects it.”

“This is the season when people of all faiths and cultures are pushing back against the planetary darkness. We string bulbs, ignite bonfires, and light candles. And we sing.

  -Anita Diamant (The Red Tent)

As the darkest days of the year approach us in the northern hemisphere, people celebrate the season of light in many ways to bring warmth and cheer into the home and to create a sense of hope for the return of the light. Light is essential to the planet and our well being as people. Exposure to natural sunlight helps our bodies produce vitamin D, improves our circadian rhythms and sleep patterns, helps us focus and improves our well-being. It boosts our immune system, metabolism and controls blood pressure, vision and sleep/wake cycles.

Some people experience Seasonal Affective Disorder or “SAD”, which is a depressive disorder due to lack of sunlight this time of year. It is important to get outside during the day and get the full-spectrum light from the sun for at least 30 minutes a day to receive the benefits of chromotherapy (all the colors of the spectrum found in sunlight). Take a walk without sunglasses to receive full benefits as our eyes need sunlight for health. The natural light gets processed in the brain and produces serotonin, a neurotransmitter that appears to play a role in regulating mood, emotions, appetite and digestion.

So, light a candle, enjoy its warmth and get outside to take a walk!!