In the UK, the winter is pretty brutal. It’s not just because it’s cold, it’s because the sun kind of disappears for weeks at a time, leaving us in this dull, gray environment that is like the physical manifestation of a nasty hangover.
Some people just get on with it, tough it out for a few month, but there are plenty of people that suffer during this period. They feel tired, anxious, irritable, and snuggle to get motivated. People that get this way are known as SAD sufferers. And I am definitely one of them.
I hate the winter months, especially when it goes dark at like 3 pm. It just sucks the life out of me, so this year I decided to see if I could make myself feel better by using a SAD Light Box. You’re probably wondering what the hell I’m talking about, so let me explain to you what they are and how they work.
What Are SAD Light Boxes?
Simple: they’re smallish boxes that contain lights. You switch them on during the day and they pump you full of good, healthy light radiation and help your body produce more serotonin – AKA happy juice.
They come in all shapes and sizes, and the light boxes deliver different types of light, depending on what you’re after. The emissions are measured in LUX and can range from anywhere from 2000 LUX right up to 10000 LUX. You can also get light bulb-powered light boxes and LED ones.
The higher the amount of LUX emitted in the shortest amount of time normally makes the unit more expensive, so keep this in mind when eyeing up a purchase. SAD light boxes also come in a range of styles and designs, so they’ll fit right into the decor of your room.
Do Light Boxes ACTUALLY Work?
Like most things on the fringes of science, you have the detractors and the zealots. Some people swear by these devices as lifesaving technologies, while others aren’t too impressed by the science behind them.
However, if you care to read any documentation about healthy living and longevity, most tend to agree that exposure to certain light sources for a minimum of 20 minutes a day is considered optimum for overall health and well being. This is why it is definitely a good idea to get out of the house and get yourself a daily dose of UV from the sun.
If you’re interested in trying out a SAD Light Box and don’t want to spend a lot of money, the Beurer TL 30 Ultra Portable Light Box from John Lewis has very positive reviews, kicks out 10000 LUX, and is available for just £51.99.
Amazon also has a MASSIVE selection of SAD Light Boxes, if you’re rocking Prime and want yours delivered next day.
by rgoodwin via Featured Articles
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