Post edited 4:41 pm – October 28, 2011 by Barb Alberts

As we head into the winter months, the days are getting shorter and you may be feeling the effects of shorter days and less sunlight.  Many people feel blue in the winter as a result of less sunlight.  This is known as Seasonal Affective Disorder or S.A.D.  Some of the signs of S.A.D. are a sense of emptiness, fatigue, lethargy, food cravings (particularly sweet and starchy foods), and a lack of concentration and/or disturbed sleep patterns.  There are several things that you can do to ward off the “Winter Blues”.  Once again, Aromatherapy can be a powerful tool in relieving this problem.   Any and all of the citrus oils are perfect for use: grapefruit, sweet orange, tangerine, lemon, lime and bergamot.  Grapefruit is one of the best choices for inhalation to relieve the “blues” and uplift the spirit.  Peppermint is also thought to be a mood enhancer and is an excellent oil to use to brighten your outlook.   Inhalation directly from the bottle is a great way to experience these oils.  You can also blend any of these oils into your body care products for application to the body.  Never apply them directly to the skin.  Add several drops to your shower or bath for a wonderful experience as well. 

(Please note that these tips are not for severely depressed or suicidal individuals and they should seek the care of a physician and may need to consider the addition of  antidepressant care. Never dismiss or self-treat massive depressive disorders yourself or

encourage anyone to discontinue medication when being treated by a physician).