The change over from the Sun/Solar months (Spring and Summer) to the Moon/Lunar months (Autumn and Winter) is a transition, as the body begins to adapt to changes in Mother Earth and what she brings into our spiritual and physical Self. Each person will experience this annual period uniquely.

The moon months/seasons are a time to re-develop, Self hibernate and re-begin the process of creating new projects. This is reflected in every part of nature. As with the moon/female energy, this is the time for inner strength, new beginnings and intuition. In this article, I want to highlight a condition that so many (sometimes unknowingly) suffer from.

S.A.D (Seasonal Affective Disorder) is a type of depression that is brought about during the Winter seasons, between September and April of each year. It is caused by a biochemical imbalance in the hypothalamus because of the shorter hours of light during the colder seasons. This affects each person differently - from being a seriously disabling condition to being a mild source of discomfort in daily life during this time of year.

Symptoms of S.A.D :

Symptoms tend to start from around September each year lasting until April, but are at their worst in the darkest months. Symptoms include:

• Sleep problems - oversleeping but not refreshed, cannot get out of bed, needing a nap in the afternoon

• Overeating - carbohydrate craving leading to weight gain

• Depression, despair, misery, guilt, anxiety - normal tasks become frustratingly difficult

• Family / social problems - avoiding company, irritability, loss of libido, loss of feeling

• Lethargy - too tired to cope, everything an effort

• Physical symptoms - often joint pain or stomach problems, lowered resistance to infection

• Behavioral problems - especially in young people

• Lack of creativity and Self expression

A wonderful way to keep track of any changes is through journal work. Rate your Self each day and list the emotions and reasons that you feel the way you do (Please note: If you feel that you suffer from S.A.D, please visit your doctor for advice.)

Key factors to enjoying the Moon seasons and combating S.A.D and winter blues:

A time to return to the inner space.

With shorter daylight hours, this new ‘darkened’ environment is a setting for shifting the focus on slowing down and reflection work. Your body clock needs to adjust to the season’s changes. By keeping a journal, you can keep track of your moods and physical adjustments.

Keep busy by using this time of year as an opportunity to start new projects and activities. This will keep you uplifted, motivated, creative and focused!

Light up your life!

If feels GREAT waking up and opening the curtains wide!

The key to keeping S.A.D and the winter blues away is through light. Get as much light in your life as possible! Open your window curtain wide during the day and fill your home with brightness. Light therapy is essential if you are severely suffering from S.A.D and the winter blues – invest in a light box and allow your eyes to relax in this lighting while doing other things (reading, eating, writing, etc). Light boxes usually produce results after 2 to 3 days of daily use (to be used daily from the moment the Moon months begin). Other alternatives to having a light box is using full spectrum bulbs (instead of ordinary bulbs) or waking up each morning with a body clock that re-creates a natural sunrise in the period immediately before waking. All these options offer a great natural uplift!

Re-discover the great outdoors.

If you thought that outdoor living was only for the warm seasons, you are missing out! A great way to get back in the feel good mood is to wrap up warm and make the most of the day – taking a walk, quick jog, sitting in the park, window shopping in open air shopping centres, etc. This is an opportunity to exercise and surround your Self with people. How are you experiencing the new horizon and landscape?

Keep your social life active!

Whether you prefer engaging in large gatherings or small cosy get-togethers, make a plan to keep your positive friends and loved ones with you through every season, especially during the Moon months. I have often found that this time of the year brings a whole new connection with the people in my life – there is a different energy to the Moon months.

New Words.

I love making this period of the year a special time to re-visit libraries and collect new books and magazines! ... To later cosy up on my sofa with a rich smoothie and gentle music. Yum lol!

Pamper!

It may mean that you will have to slowly transition to getting used to your winter clothing again and adding new daily rituals - Treat your Self to beauty treats and keep your physical health alive with healthy comfort foods, bright clothing and spiritual nourishment!

Copyright © Linda K. Romera, Natural health, Self-inspiration & creativity @ www.purelyholistic.co.uk ~ www.myspace.com/alma2254