Natural Treatments for Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is an example of how a change in seasons can affect our

emotional and physical wellbeing. Seasonal Affective Disorder is nationally recognized during

the month of December.

Between 4 and 6 percent of the U.S. population suffer from SAD. It is more commonly observed

in those who live at high latitudes (areas farther away from the equator to the north and south).

Seasonal changes are generally more extreme in these regions, supporting the idea that SAD is

caused by changes in sunlight availability.

While SAD can occur during summer with limited symptoms such as weight loss, trouble

sleeping and decreased appetite, its winter symptoms tend to be more severe. Winter-time

sufferers of SAD can experience fatigue, increased need for sleep, decreased energy levels,

weight gain, increase in appetite, difficulty concentrating and increased desire to be alone.

The TCM yin and yang forces of the seasons coincide with those of the body. The Yellow

Emperor’s Classic of Medicine states that, “People and nature are inseparable.” While yang’s

warmth, activity and brightness work through out the spring and summer months, yin’s passivity,

coldness and darkness begin in autumn and continue until spring equinox. Therefore, the winter

months, which represent the height of the yin cycle and the water element, can cause those

whose constitution tends toward yin to feel the effects of this season more acutely.

Western medicine currently treats seasonal affective disorder with light therapy and sometimes

with antidepressants. This is because energetic imbalances, which are associated with

emotional and physical disturbances in the body, can become more pronounced after a change

in weather and sunlight. The downside to these light therapies is that they carry side effects

such as eyestrain, headache, irritability, fatigue, insomnia, palpitations, high blood pressure and

reduced libido. Also, these therapies do not address the underlying problems, but merely offer

symptom relief.

Acupuncture is a natural alternative to light therapy or antidepressants. Acupuncture, which has

shown promising results treating depression by releasing serotonin and

noradrenaline-norepinephrine, has no side effects. Together with a treatment plan created by a

licensed acupuncturist, acupuncture can improve balance of mood and energy, relieving the

patient from the burdens of a depressed, unbalanced system.

The winter months are associated with the Kidney system, which is the base of qi, our vital

energy. The Kidney creates fire and warmth and provides energy to other organs. As our bodies

use up energy keeping warm, they begin to crave quick sources of new energy in high calorie

foods, which are stored as fat to keep the body warm. These foods do not sustain energy levels

in the body, nor do they properly nourish the Kidney, and with this energy depletion we tend to

feel more lethargic and sensitive to our surroundings. This is why winter is a time to seek

replenishment of body, mind and spirit.

Nourishment in all areas of life is especially important during the winter months when SAD is

most common. Although many people head indoors during winter, it is important to continue

outdoor activities to expose yourself to daylight, and to take part in activities that support inner

balance. Physical and mental stress, as well as poor sleep and nutrition, further deplete the

body’s energy and leave you susceptible to illness. You should rest and conserve energy, but

also spend time with friends and loved ones, cultivate your inner dialogue and eat a well

balanced diet. Eating less fruits, increasing whole grain intake and plenty of warming foods such

as soup, is a great way to nourish the Kidney system.

Oriental medicine can restore the balance our bodies seek during seasonal transitions. While

the tendency is to look inward or become preoccupied with one area of our health, such as

maintaining energy and keeping warm, it is important to remember that balance in everything

from your diet to your living environment is essential in sustaining a positive outlook and a

healthy mood.

- Pacific College of Oriental Medicine