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As the seasons change, so do we, there are small physiological changes that occur, of which we are mostly unaware as the year progresses. Depending on your sensitivity the slump can start in September, gradually gaining impact to be at maximum in deepest winter. There have now been numerous studies on this and someone fondly labelled it S.A.D. - Seasonal Affective Disorder. S.A.D. recognises that we do struggle depending on the climate or season. It's commonly associated with what was known as 'winter blues' and in severe cases depression, specifically through the winter months. As these investigations deepened the research showed that a similar response could be found during other seasons depending on the individual. There may also be other symptoms that you might not have associated with the end of summer, namely a change in appetite, disrupted sleep pattern, fluctuating mood; these all form part of the bigger picture of what is happening to the whole ensemble that is your body, the holistic picture that describes what is happening to the mind, body and spirit is feeling uneasy. What can you do to get yourself back on track? Firstly you need to appreciate the seasons; we are on the Earth and very much an integral part of it, as are the seasons. Although life in the city to some extent detaches us from nature we can't let it shroud our vision so that all we see is concrete. Look around and observe the change and enjoy the beauty of it. What is so different? Well every season has its particular strength.
Winter is when the energy wants to retreat to the depths, a time for nourishing the soul because nature has little to offer in terms of sustenance. In days gone by it was a time for telling stories and passing on wisdom from one generation to the next and feeding the body on root vegetables cooked and warmed over a slow burning fire. Spring shows bursting activity, plants start to flourish once more and so do our plans for the year ahead, maybe not such a coincidence that we plan summer vacations at this time. Summer is a time for full blossom, where the inner beauty of nature is at full display and our hearts are open. In late summer things are in decline fruits are ripe and harvest is ready. Then we have autumn - the balancing season. This is a time for contemplation and reflection on the past year, we decide what hold we and move forward with and release that which is not of use. We cannot go on endlessly accumulating, there comes a time when decisions have to be made to bring some balance back into our lives. Just as the trees shed their leaves so to must we let go and this involves physical possessions and well as emotional feelings. Ask yourself "am I holding onto too much?" Take time to answer it and be bold and let it go if you need to, now experience the power of the mind and spirit on the body as you move forward into winter and the year ahead with a lightened load. Saumeel Patel www.acupunctureinsurrey.co.uk If you would like to submit a health question to Sam please email editor@kayve.co.uk