When it’s only 5 p.m. but feels like midnight, sometimes all I feel like doing is curling up on the couch and ignoring the rest of the world.
I absolutely dread the cold. I am a summer baby through and through and could live without the cold and extra darkness.
These cold and darker months can be hard on many people, especially those who experience seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which can affect mood and behaviour due to lack of natural light.
For more information on SAD, you may want to check out this book at the Bradford West Gwillimbury Public Library: Winter Blues Survival Guide: A Workbook for Overcoming SAD.
Aside from packing up and moving to a warmer climate, there are other things we can do to combat the winter blues.
Last week I talked about the benefits of journaling and making it part of self-care practice.
Given the shorter days and dropping temperatures, it seems fitting to highlight additional services and programs offered by the library that can seamlessly integrate into your self-care practices.
Light therapy lamps
The BWG library has a few HappyLights in our collection to borrow for up to three weeks at a time. We also have a few sprinkled throughout the library for a quick pick-me-up.
These lights deliver up to 10,000 lux of natural spectrum light, mimicking the sun’s radiance to trigger your body’s natural energy boosters. The result? An uplifted mood and increased energy levels. Perfect for use while on the computer, reading, or watching TV, HappyLights bring the benefits of natural daylight without harmful UV exposure.
Borrow a light therapy lamp here.
Please note: HappyLights make no medical claims, and we recommend consulting a qualified physician before using any bright light system.
Self-care toolkit workshop
Since the spring, we have been offering the self-care toolkit workshop series with Andréa. It offers participants a chance to look at ways of bringing a little joy into their lives, while minimizing stress.
In these sessions, you’ll embark on a transformative journey toward a happier and more balanced life through book recommendations from our engaging collection and discussing stress-management tips and techniques.
These are free drop-in sessions, and no registration is required. Our next two sessions will be Nov. 27, and Dec. 11 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the boardroom.
Journaling
In a recent program for teens and adults, we explored the art of journaling. Participants not only designed and took home personalized journals but also delved into various writing prompts and journaling styles. As we approach the new year, we plan to continue this program, fostering positive energy as we set goals and cultivate habits.
As we continue to enhance our offerings, we’d love to hear your feedback. What other self-care programs would you like to see at the library?
’Til next week, happy reading.
Natasha Philpott is the marketing and communications coordinator at the Bradford West Gwillimbury Public Library. She can be reached at [email protected].
