We all know it’s coming — temperatures will drop, snow will fall during the winter months, along with gray skies and fewer hours of sunlight. For some, holiday stress and weather changes can trigger seasonal depression. Learn how chiropractic can help alleviate seasonal affective disorder.
Why Does the Weather Cause Seasonal Depression?
The sun stimulates your brain to produce mood-balancing chemicals, which can help you feel alive and active. When daylight saving time ends, and winter begins, the body and mind are deprived of light. To maintain balance in the brain, it runs through cycles called the circadian rhythm. Because of the reduction in sunlight, it is not uncommon for many people to experience seasonal depression. Sunshine is necessary to maintain your brain’s balance.
What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
During the winter months, many people experience seasonal depression, also known as seasonal affective disorder. Weather such as snow or rain makes the condition more prevalent during the winter months. The lack of sunlight causes your brain to feel depressed, as it is starved of light.
Can Chiropractic Help With Seasonal Depression?
Most symptoms associated with seasonal affective disorder fall in the category of stress, resulting in vertebral subluxations AKA spinal misalignment. A misaligned spine can make exercising and sleeping more difficult. The benefits of chiropractic adjustments include improving spinal mobility and releasing endorphins in the body. In addition, the alignment of the spine can alleviate neck and back pain and improve sleep, make patients less irritable, and increase energy levels. Overall, our patients report improved mood and relief from some holiday stress this time of year.
Chiropractic treatment can help you reduce your holiday stress levels, allowing you to enjoy the winter months more fully. When the days are at their shortest, it is possible to remain optimistic with the right treatment plan. If you suffer from seasonal depression, schedule an appointment with your local Pontiac chiropractor, Livingston County Chiropractic.
