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Beat the Winter Blues: Experts Say Light Exposure is key to Seasonal Energy

PARIS – As winter descends and ⁤daylight hours dwindle,a pervasive fatigue often sets in,impacting ​motivation and mood for millions. But experts say a simple, natural‍ solution can combat⁣ this seasonal slump: prioritizing daily light ⁢exposure. This isn’t just about “feeling better”; it’s about ‍regulating a essential biological process.

the shift in seasons often triggers what’s known as ⁢seasonal fatigue – a diffuse weariness,difficulty waking,and ⁤a fading of energy that affects ‍a important portion of the population. Understanding the root cause – primarily lack of light – is the first step towards regaining control.Light is a crucial regulator of ​our internal clock, also known as the circadian⁢ rhythm.

When this clock is disrupted by shorter days and less ‌sunlight, the production of melatonin, the hormone ‌controlling sleep, ​becomes erratic. This leads to difficulty waking,‍ stagnant ⁤energy levels, and mood swings, often manifesting ⁢as feelings of fogginess or irritability. These effects are often⁣ compounded ‍by winter habits: richer, more comforting foods replacing lighter meals, increased indoor time, and a decline in physical activity.

These seemingly small excesses – excess sugar, fatty foods, moderate alcohol‌ consumption, and shorter‍ nights – place additional strain on the body, exacerbating feelings of heaviness. Fatigue can also signal underlying‌ deficiencies, particularly iron, ⁢which is vital for oxygen transport. this is especially relevant for women and athletes. Furthermore, hormonal fluctuations, particularly in⁣ women over​ 50 experiencing menopause, can intensify these ‍feelings. Persistent fatigue warrants a check⁣ of iron levels.

Beyond the physical, psychological factors also play a role. The⁣ return to work routines, post-holiday readjustments, and increased professional demands can contribute to stress. This stress, ⁣combined with reduced exercise and toxin buildup, hinders‍ recovery, disrupts sleep, and amplifies fatigue.

however, there’s a powerful, accessible remedy: daily light exposure, ideally in the morning. Whether through a 20-minute walk ‍outdoors ‌or utilizing a light therapy lamp, this ​”light ‌supply” boosts energy and stabilizes mood. Experts are ‌clear: prioritizing light‌ is one of the moast‍ effective actions to navigate winter‍ without succumbing to the winter blues.