feeling s.a.d.? switch a few lightbulbs to "full spectrum" lightbulbs... (Home Depot)

[sunburned_in_seattle]

Hello, even though I am new to the area, I wanted to make the recommendation of switching lightbulbs (not all of your lbs, but a few key ones seems to do the trick..) to full spectrum lightbulbs...if the lack of light seems to be affecting your mood. I just did this in my bedroom (from a GE Reveal lightbulb) and the light is very much more pleasant. (also, I'm not a fan of ugly yellow synthetic light,I think it's depressing)

although, I can't recommend where to buy them. except online, I bought 60 W full spectrum lightbulb on amazon...which seems really silly because one would think it would break through shipping (it didn't...yeah amazon) But they are not at any big box stores like Walmart, Home Depot, etc.(Health Food stores??) I used to be able to buy these at Whole Foods - when I lived in Chicago they had a wide range of brands to chose from - but the Whole Foods by me doesn't carry any. (Also, I don't think it needs to be a high Watt to do the trick - just go with whatever your lamp suggests.)

I digress, just wanted to share my tip. IMO, $7 full spectrum lightbulb is better than those "light boxes" they sell, which can be a little pricey.

oh, also this article I found helpful. The Norwegian Secret To Enjoying A Long Winter

Cheers.

[homesinseattle]

Great article, sunburned. As I have always maintained, a big part of winter and gloomy day success is mindset and getting outside. In the article it says "there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing". So often when people say it is grey outside, I go for a long walk and see many colors, textures, nuances in the sky. Get outside, y'all!

[Arushan]

The full spectrum lightbulbs have helped, but what helped me even more is using a blue LED lightbulb along side of it in my lamp. Makes sense because there's less blue sky to be seen in the winter. Just don't use it at night, as it could interfere with melatonin production.

Could blue lights replace a daily cup of coffee? Scientists claim they could be more effective at keeping you alert than caffeine | Daily Mail Online

Caffeine consumption is big here, so this could be a reason.

[TacTown]

My wife is from the Caribbean and grew up 85 F average temp. Her first few winters here really affected her mood. I happened to read an article on S.A.D. and full spectrum lighting and decided to give the lights a try. I walked into one of the many grow shops we seem to have here and bought two 4ft florescent fixtures with bulbs included for $30 each. I don't know if she got used to the winters or the lights really work but she's back to her bubbly self all year long now.