by Charlotte Spears
The winter season is upon us. Most of us have had wonderful times together over the holiday season. We have indulged in too much turkey over Thanksgiving, enjoyed the lovely lights of Christmas and had fun at parties with friends and family in celebration of the New Year. Now the pretty decorations have been packed away everything just seems so ordinary. Not to mention, the shorter daylight hours can have an adverse affect on our moods. It is estimated that 6% to 14% of Americans suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder or some form of winter doldrums. Symptoms of SAD include craving sweets and carbohydrates, over sleeping, headaches, general sadness and pessimism as well as a tendency to withdraw from outside social activities. In other words, we become grumpy bears and hibernate.
The most prominent cause for SAD is the shorter days – the lack of sunlight and the low quality of sunlight that is available during the winter months. There is a poem by Emily Dickinson that pretty much sums up the feeling:
There’s a certain Slant of light,
Winter Afternoons -
That oppresses, like the Heft
Of Cathedral Tunes -
Heavenly Hurt, it gives us -
We can find no scar,
But internal difference,
Where the Meanings, are -
None may teach it – Any -
‘Tis the Seal Despair -
An imperial affliction
Sent us of the Air -
Thankfully, there are lighting options on the market today that are ideal for treating the winter blues. One of the most effective lighting treatments are Full Spectrum Lights. These lights mimic the qualities of natural sunlight and have been shown to have a similar affect on moods. They are available as both floor lamps and desk top models. Another form of lighting that is becoming increasingly popular are LED light bulbs. They have a wonderful color rendering index similar to sunlight, burn cool and last four times longer than conventional incandescent bulbs. They are more expensive at the time of purchase, but the overall savings on cost to replace them as well as their energy efficiency is well worth the initial cost. These are mostly available online at this time, but Phillips has developed a line that will be coming soon to local home supply and lighting specialty stores.
Another wonderful way to add a touch of spring into your winter interiors is to grow a Forced Bulb Garden full of spring bloomers like hyacinth, tulips and daffodils. They come in pretty containers and just watching the bulbs burst forth their blooms in rainbow colors can put a grin on even the most sour winter curmudgeon. You can order these from bulb and flower catalogs and have a plethora of beautiful springtime flora in a matter of weeks. If you just can’t wait that long, there are always lovely bouquets for the picking at your local grocery store that will add instant splendor to your décor. One of the best choices from the grocer’s floral selections is the Alstromeria Lily. These pretty maids have blooms that can often last 2-3 weeks with an occasional re-cut and a bit of fresh water.
One final idea that will add guaranteed fun to winter evenings is to host a family fun night. Bring out the board games, pop some popcorn and pop in a movie with a springtime or summer theme. Some good selections might be: Jaws, Meatballs or Mama Mia. With everyone gathered in all warm and cozy, laughing and enjoying each other’s company it won’t be long until everyone forgets that outside is cold and dark.
Charlotte Spears has always loved decorating. Owner of Cozy Home Designs, Charlotte holds a BA in Interior Design from University of Charleston and has 16 years experience. She enjoys helping people create a home that is warm and welcoming. Visit her online at www.cozyhomecottage.blogspot.com.
