Why Does This Happen To Me?
Everyone Suffers To Some Degree
Although Winter Blues has been studied for over 20 years, it is still somewhat of an enigma. Researchers still don't know why some people have Winter Blues and others don't when it gets dark. What we do know is that winter darkness affects us all. We all gain weight in the winter, we eat more, exercise less, are less productive, and we sleep more. Still, some people can shake it off, others are mildly affected, and some suffer from major mood problems.
Weak Body Clocks
Scientists believe that some of us have weaker body clocks that don't respond to the same cues that others respond to. While normal morning light or alarm clocks help most people, about 7 - 10% of us have body clocks that don't respond, and need a stronger stimulus in order to respond. The strongest circadian signal is specialized bright light. While studies show that bright light is beneficial to all people, those who suffer from Winter Blues respond the most to bright light. Generally ½ hour of light at the proper time of day will entrain, or reset our body clock, and once it is reset, only 15 - 20 minutes per day is needed to maintain that response.
Human Genome Project
Because of the extensive work in deciphering our gene structure, scientists have been able to identify several genes which work in concert with the Suprachaismatic Nucleus, or body clock, in determining our circadian rhythms. These genes are responsible for sending feedback or reinforcing signals to the SCN, and they are also responsible for several other circadian functions. Some of these circadian controlled functions include the regulation of blood pressure, heart rate, blood sugar, and digestion. Scientists have also discovered that some of these genes can be deformed, causing a predisposition to mood and circadian rhythm problems. Researchers hope that this research can develop tests, which should predict whether someone is prone to circadian rhythm problems, and what he/she can do about it. These tests should also help us understand circadian rhythms better, and when to use light more effectively.
To learn more about the proper timing and type of light, click here: The Light Therapy Equation
