Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that’s related to changes in seasons – SAD begins and ends at about the same times every year. If you’re like most people with SAD, your symptoms start in the fall and continue into the winter months, sapping your energy and making you feel moody. Less often, SAD causes depression in the spring or early summer.
If you are experiencing symptoms of SAD consider therapeutic bodywork and or reflexology. Massage and Bodywork is, in essence, its own medicine. Massage greatly reduces the symptoms of depression. Massage decreases cortisol levels, and with decreased cortisol levels there is a decrease in stress.
Massage and Reflexology allows the body to restore parasympathetic nervous system functioning. In this state the body is at rest and is able to digest. Bodywork increases the level of endorphins (the body’s natural anti-depressant) which interrupts the fight or flight mechanism. Massage strengthens the mind/body connection. It increases our general sense of well being and increases our immunity and vitality.
Don’t brush off that yearly feeling as simply a case of the “winter blues” or a seasonal funk that you have to tough out or deal with on your own. Take steps to keep your mood and motivation steady throughout the year. Call me to talk about the options available or schedule a Massage, Bodywork, Reflexology or Combination Session regularly online. I can be reached at (413)687-7878.