What is SAD? SAD stands for Seasonal Affective Disorder. This is characterized by seasonal specific depression. So this is by no means limited to just Winter, but rather many people can experience this disorder in the Spring, Summer and Fall. The most common, however is Winter-onset depression.
Some common symptoms of SAD include:
"difficulty waking up in the morning, morning sickness, tendency to oversleep and over eat, ..a craving for carbohydrates, ..lack of energy, difficulty concentrating on or completing tasks, and withdrawal from friends, family and social activities.." -Wikipedia
In a nutshell, it's no fun. Fortunately there are treatments. Many doctors may subscribe antidepressants along with light therapy. Light therapy in itself may be fully effective at treating Winter-onset depression. The reason being is that lack of natural light is most likely the catalyst for this disorder.
This is why I decided to look into this form of treatment. After much searching I decided to go with Sun Touch Plus by Nature Bright. I'm glad I did!
Nature Bright has been in the business of creating light therapy products for over a decade and they have an amazing track record of helping many people alleviate their SAD symptoms.
The science behind light therapy:
"Scientific researchers have discovered a new light receptor in the eye's retina that interprets signals from light rays, and send the information to sections of our brain that stimulate hormone secretion and body rhythms. The Sun Touch Plus' Sky Effect lamps emit the optimal blue light that best stimulates these receptors, which send signals to neurological receptors, energizing important centers in the body."
Some of the features of the Sun Touch Plus include:
10,000 Sky Effect Light
Built-in Negative Ionizer
15,30,45, and 60 Minute Timer
Emits 17,000 Kelvin UV-Free Light
Mimics the blue sky
When I first received my Sun Touch I was so anxious to get started I had it positioned too close and for too long, I timed it for the full hour. As a result I ended up with a headache. I now have it set up on a filing cabinet next to my desk; which is a little further away, and I time it for 30 minutes. So it's important to gauge your bodies reaction. You may want to start out slower and then gradually increase your time.
I try to use my Nature Bright as early in the A.M. as possible. I'm already seeing a increase in my energy level as well as some relief with the depression. I really wished I had looked into this sooner.
Light therapy is not advised for those who suffer with bipolar disorder, if your not certain then you should seek a diagnosis from your doctor. This not a sunlamp, you will not receive a tan. Sun Touch is completely free of UV light.
Light therapy isn't limited to just SAD, but those that suffer with:
Sleep difficulties
Low moods
Fatigue caused by irregular work shifts
Menstrual and menopause discomfort
Irritability
Excessive tiredness and fatigue
Jet lag
Winter where I live is still cold and dreary, but I'm happy to say that Sun Touch Plus by Nature Bright has given me some semblance of a life back.
You can purchase the Sun Touch Plus on Nature Bright as well as Amazon.com. The price is phenomenal on Amazon and you still get a two year warranty.
I learned the have Sky Effect for offices using the same technology and it energizes those working there.
ReplyDeletebaypayments@yahoo.com
I learned that I need this!!
ReplyDeletejandplee at att dot net
I leant that 6% of Americans suffer from SAD
ReplyDeleteI learned that they also sell Sky Effect™ industrial lighting which I think is a "brilliant" idea since dreariness in the office often leads to reduced work output. mcgillrmcgill(at)charter(dot)net
ReplyDeleteI had a look at the Sky Effect light and wondered what it would be like to work under it all day. It says they provide a broad spectrum of important light frequencies. I have struggled with SAD so I'm curious about these lights.
ReplyDeleteI learned that they have lights for businesses. That is awesome. I could use one of these for my condition.
ReplyDeleteDOREEN RIOPEL ON ENTRY FORM
I learned that they offer lighting to make the work environment more productive and healthy.
ReplyDeletetubbytelly at gmail dot com
I like the Per3 Deluxe Light Therapy Lamp
ReplyDeletethanks for the giveway new gfc follower. follow back please http://readalot-rhonda1111.blogspot.com/ I appreciate it
ReplyDeleteI am thinking this lamp would be great for me as I read more about it. I feel that with my age together with the cool cloudy winter weather this would definitely be a great plus in well being!
ReplyDeletegoldiez at hotmail dot com
I learned they have an energizing light.
ReplyDeletedonna444444@yahoo.com
I learned that the basic idea is that the eye's retinal receptor senses blue light and sends signals to the hypothalamus, that area of the brain where sleep and emotive functions are regulated.
ReplyDeletebluebelle0367(at)hotmail(dot)com
belinda mcnabb
I LOVE the Square One Wake-Up Light Therapy!
ReplyDeleteDara Nix
kitty32504 at cox dot net
I like the Sky Effect Light the most.cardshark42(at)hotmail(dot)com
ReplyDeleteI learned that 1 in 4 women suffer from SAD.
ReplyDeleteI read that 6% of Americans suffer from SAD - I guess I would have thought that would have been a higher number
ReplyDeleteI would love the Square One Wake-up Light
ReplyDeletety
RAFFLECOPTER
NAME
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Anne Taylor
I learned that their products are way too pricey for me. :/ Guess I better hope I win!
ReplyDelete@Katrina I'm sorry you feel that way, I'm actually very impressed with their prices.
ReplyDeleteThank you for taking the time to help us new to entering blog contests.I'm also new to the computer so I can use all the help I can get.
ReplyDeleteI like their T-5 Energy-Saving Adapter Set.
ReplyDeleteI learned that 6% of people suffer from SAD. I knew it was high but I didn't realize it was that high. WOW!
ReplyDeleteI learned that pregnant woman can also use it.. There are so many reasons to use this lamp. LOVE IT
ReplyDeleteI learned what SAD is. I think I may have it. I always get depressed in the winter.
ReplyDeleteI learned that 1 in 4 women suffer from SAD
ReplyDeletecontactlillea at gmail dot com
that winter days and lack of sun would make this great
ReplyDeleteI learned that you can see positive effects after using the product in approx 2 weeks or even as short a time as a few days. That is good news for those that really get down during the dark winter months. I can not say I get depressed but living in Northern Ontario we have way too many dark and dreary days and I notice I am sort of dragging myself around with little energy so this would definitely be something I would give a try! Thanks so much for another great giveaway!!
ReplyDeletejglaframboise at eastlink dot ca
3 out of 4 SAD sufferers are women:(
ReplyDeleteI learned that 1 in 4 women suffer from SAD
ReplyDeletes2s2 at comcast dot net
i learned that 3 out of 4 people who suffer from SAD are women.
ReplyDeleteI like that you can get the timer to work in 15, 30, 45, or 60 minute intervals.
ReplyDeleteI learned that 3 out of 4 people who suffer from SAD are women. I guess traditionally men have always gone out of the house to work and thus are outside in the sunshine more than women.
ReplyDeleteI found out that according to experts, the key to beating the winter blues is to use a 10,000-lux product such as our SunTouch Plus, and use it regularly. It's estimated that if you follow the guidelines, at least 80% of your symptoms could disappear
ReplyDeleteI like the Sky Effect Light.
ReplyDeleterhoneygtn at yahoo dot com
I learned that 3 out of 4 people who suffer from SAD are women. ( and I'm one of those women)
ReplyDeleteclenna@aol.com
I learned that light therapy can be used for a variety of ailments/symptoms.
ReplyDeleteI learned they sell commercial lighting, that would be great here in seattle!
ReplyDeleteI learned that it has helped many thousands of people, in times of temporary stress, sadness, disequilibrium and fatigue, find their true colors again.
ReplyDeleteI really like how the Sun Touch systems use a persons own circadian rhythm in tandem with the lights to "treat" the issues one might have. SAD, fatigue, stress, what have you. I am curious if this might be helpful to those of us with FMS as well :)
ReplyDeleteMore businesses should be using the Sky Effect lights especially in schools and hospitals.
ReplyDeleteI learned that 6% of Americans suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder. I live in the northeast which is so dreary right now. I would love to try this!
ReplyDeleteKellywcuATyahooDOTcom
I learned that if you are feeling down this can really help.
ReplyDeleteJen Tink
ReplyDeleteI like that Square One
Ladytink_534(at)yahoo(dot)com
andreajason20 @ yahoo.ca
ReplyDeleteI learned this is something that would definitely help me (I suffer from depression which is far worse when it is dull and grey outside). Thanks for the giveaway!...fingers crossed :)
i would LOVE to try this! i found it interesting that they have industrial lighting too to boost mood and motivation! lmlynch2 at gmail dot com
ReplyDeleteYou should start to see your winter blues lift in as few as three days. The key is consistency, just like with exercise — or taking medicine, for that matter.
ReplyDeleteI discovered that the light therapy could eliminate 80% of the symptoms. This is surprising to me. I suffer from SAD, and to feel 80% less of my bad symptoms right now would be amazing.
ReplyDeleteI think I have SAD. :( I'm going to learn more. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteI learned that their bright light therapy suppresses melatonin and makes us feel better.
ReplyDeleteI learned that this technology may help me with not being able to get a good nights sleep
ReplyDeleteMary Baker shared a link.
ReplyDeleteFeatured Product Reviews: Nature Bright; A Cure for the Winter Blues
www.nyaproductreviewer.com
quality product reviews.
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The light is said to enhance mood, elevate energy, and promote better sleep.
ReplyDeletegabe411 at hotmail dot com
I'm usually a very upbeat person but I find that during the cold New York Winter months, I generally experience a devastating depression that doesn't affect me in the warmer months. After reading this giveaway and doing some research, I discovered that odds are, I am suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD. Clinical studies and experience has revealed that some version of SAD light from Nature Bright will help one regain their emotional balance.
ReplyDeleteI feel I am an ideal candidate for your bright light therapy™.This machine sounds like something that could prove very beneficial to me and many others. I would love the opportunity to try it. Nothing is worse than depression. If this machine can help, I'll be the first one to check it out.
Thank you for this very generous and amazing giveaway. Good luck to all.
Dlori
kleimanlaw at aol dot com
I learned that 3 our of 4 people who suffer from SAD are women. I hate how early it gets dark in the winter months.
ReplyDeletefoxydebs@hotmail.com
I learned that there's such a thing as "energy lighting" for businesses!
ReplyDeleteChampion1953 at aol.com
In reading about their Sky Effect Technology, I learned that when melatonin senses darkness coming on, it goes into production and tells our body that it's time for sleep and it even dips our blood pressure.
ReplyDeleteI learned that a big seller of theirs is for commercial use:
ReplyDeleteSky Effect™ industrial lighting
I never thought of using the lamps for pregnancy and postpartum!Personally i have SAD so id love this.
ReplyDeleteI learned 3 out of 4 SAD sufferers are women
ReplyDeleteI learned that 3 out of 4 people who suffer from SAD are women
ReplyDeleteLight therapy helps withthe empty nest years which I am in right now
ReplyDeleterosans4@comcast.net
Visiting the website I learned that the light helps with sadness, depression, pregnancy and postpartum, empty nest syndrome and motivation.
ReplyDeleteI also learned they have a wake up light too.
My email is MANIFESTMIRACLES@LIVE.COM
I learned In elderly patients with Major Depressive Disorder, Bright Light Treatment improved mood, enhanced sleep efficiency, and increased the upslope melatonin level gradient.
ReplyDeleteConnie G
CGruning at aol(dot)com
I learned that this product helps with postpartum depression/blues.
ReplyDeleteI think I have the winter blues and this could surely help!
ReplyDeleteI've been thinking about getting one of these. Glad to see a review.
ReplyDeleteSquare One Wake Up Light looks interesting.
ReplyDeleteI would like to have the Square One Wake-Up Light .
ReplyDeleteamt (at)telus (dot)net
The Square One product that is coming soon sounds interesting.
ReplyDeletelearned: Nature Bright is based in Irvine, California
ReplyDeletexoxoxo
I learned that I positively need something like this, Explains alot!
ReplyDeleteI learned that this product and others like it can help people with SAD.
ReplyDeleteI like the Square One
ReplyDeleteyummyfaerie at hotmail dot com
Having a SAD light box Is a must for anyone who is dealing with depression, insomnia, and a whole host of other mood disorders. In order for it to be most effective, it's important to find the right SAD light box for you.
ReplyDeleteSunTouch plus aletha.scott1@gmaildotcom
ReplyDeleteI would like to have the Square One Wake-Up Light .
ReplyDeletecontestcrow at gmail dot com
I visited Nature Bright and discovered energy light can be used as a motivational tool in the office.
ReplyDeletethe light is perfect for pregnancy and postpartum
ReplyDeleteI read the Golden Years, Golden Light? article there. That is me. Empty Nest. Alone. I think I need to shed some light on my mood, for sure.
ReplyDeleteThank you for this review. I had no idea about SAD.
I like the fact that it doesn't take long to make you feel better.
ReplyDeleteThis lamp particularly caught my eye:
ReplyDeletePer3 Deluxe Light Therapy Lamp
I love that it can actually help those who suffer with menstrual cramps (me!)!!
ReplyDeleteI learned that extra blue light signals can help us get back on track if we're restless, nervous, or have just travelled across time zones. Would be cool to try this. It gets very grey for long periods in WA state. Neat giveaway. Thanks.
ReplyDeletefromfurrin at gmail dot com
I work nights and sleep during the day so winter months is really hard for me I like that you feel like your getting sunlight
ReplyDeletenickyflowers1978@hotmail.com
ReplyDeleteI need to replenish my VitD so I can sleep better at night
I think this is a great product! I love that the SunTouch Plus can promote better sleep - since as a pregnant woman I am desperately sleep deprived - and it's probably only going to get worse when the baby comes!
ReplyDeletelajohnson555 at yahoo dot com
"It's estimated that if you follow the guidelines, at least 80% of your symptoms could disappear"....I feel hopeful for the first time in a long time, this product might actually make me feel like my old self! That would be such a blessing after years of medication with meager results. I hope I win!
ReplyDeleteI learned that 6% of Americans suffer from SAD.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for the fantastic giveaway!
Renee Walters
Bored2quickly@hotmail.com
I learned they also make a Sky Effect Light for use in offices and other workplaces.
ReplyDeletechrisdeglen(at)gmail(dot)com
They have the Square-One Wakeup Light.
ReplyDeleteI like the NatureBright's Square Wake-Up Light
ReplyDeletelearned that 1 in 4 women suffer from SAD.
ReplyDeletelearned that 1 in 4 women suffer from SAD.
ReplyDeleteI learned that they re coming out with a portable light called Square One
ReplyDeleteI learned that "You can expect to see results from light therapy after just a few days, if used appropriately. (Though it usually takes two or more weeks.)"
ReplyDeleteThanks for the giveaway!
email in blogger profile.
I love the portability of the lights. While I don't travel a lot, I do visit my parents for a week or so at a time every couple of months. Being able to take the light with me is a real plus.
ReplyDeleteI learned about the sky effect lights
ReplyDeletedhealey123@yahoo.com
I Tweeted again!
ReplyDeleteGreat that is has such brightnes of the light that makes us produce more energy.
ReplyDeletethanks
hmcnaron at gmail
a marie hj saver
I like the Per3 Deluxe Light Therapy Lamp. Cheryl cjabdelnour@hotmail.com
ReplyDeleteI like the Per3 Deluxe Light Therapy Lamp. Cheryl cjabdelnour@hotmail.com
ReplyDeleteI learned they will have a wake up light soon!
ReplyDeletelearned they are based in irvine ca
ReplyDeletebrich22 at earthlink dot net
I like the Sky Effect Light that have on their website.
ReplyDeleteI think it's neat that not only does this help your moods, but it's good for all of your adult stages of life.... even pregnant ladies!
ReplyDeletei learned that they are going to have a portable light soon thanks crystal allen
ReplyDeleteit doesnt take long for you to feel better
ReplyDeleteamy16323(at)gmail(dot)com
I learned that Im not the only one that gets depressed in the winter.
ReplyDeleteI've learned there might actually be a legitimate reason for me getting what i've always referred to as the Winter Blues.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the great contest!
ReplyDeletebahjeep@aol.com
I like that it helps your mood. My mil lives alone 600 miles from us and is very subjective to the weather. Her mood goes down hill fast if it's just cloudy and winter is the worst for her. I would love to give this to her and, hopefully, bring her some relief.
ReplyDeleteRaffle Copter: happi shopr
I learned about the hibernation hormone and I think I have extra. This lamp sounds great.
ReplyDeleteThey are based in Irvine, California and have the motto, "Bright Light, Brighter Future,"
ReplyDeleteThanks for the contest.
I learned that clinical studies have shown that recalibrating the rhythm in your body — from its temperature and hormone secretion to its regular sleep patterns — revives moods and energy... naturally.
ReplyDeletedaveshir2005@yahoo.com
fb/ shirley greenawalt zolenski
twitter,gfc,stumble/ daveshir2005
google +/ shirley pebbles
I learned that The primary age group for the onset of SAD is 18-30.
ReplyDeletebrendapenton@hotmail.com
i like the suntouch plus.
ReplyDeletefb: rab pom
cmarquez482(at)ymail(dot)com
I want the Square One Wake-up Light.
ReplyDeleteheatherpooh (hotmail)