Adidas popular RPT-01 on-ear workout headphones have been redesigned to work with a power source that will be with you wherever your outdoor training sessions take you. The $229 or 200 British pounds Adidas RPT-02 SOL are equipped with a headband that can harvest solar energy, which is used to keep their internal rechargeable battery topped up with power. It goes on sale August 23 at adidasheadphones.com.

Its not the first time a company has released a set of solar-powered headphones. Urbanista did that in 2021 with its Los Angeles headphones. But the Los Angeles are a larger, over-ear model that arent especially well suited to workouts, which arguably makes the Adidas RPT-02 SOL a better fit for the benefits of solar charging.

Like the Los Angeles, the RPT-02 SOL uses a Powerfoyle light-harvesting solar cell from Stockholm-based Exeger. You probably wont be able to charge them using solar energy alone, but if you start with a full charge which Adidas claims is good for a remarkable 80 hours and spend most of your play time outside, you could theoretically never need to plug them in again.

To help you understand how the solar charging works, you can see real-time information in the companion app, and theres an LED indicator on the headband that tells you when youve positioned the headphones in sufficiently bright light.

When we tested the Los Angeles, we found they lived up to their claims, but only if you could spend a good amount of time each day in very bright conditions most indoor lighting wasnt sufficient to offset the energy drain on the battery from regular use.

In addition to being environmentally friendly from a power perspective, the company says that the headphones have been sustainably made. 51% of the product is made from plastic and that material is 87% composed of post-consumer recycled plastics.

Like the RPT-01, the RPT-02 SOL are IPX4 water-resistant, and all of the fabric components on the headband and ear cushions are washable handy for repeated use with sweaty workouts. But other than their larger battery capacity (80 hours versus 40) and their solar-charging capability, the RPT-02 SOL appear to be virtually identical to their non-solar sibling. Given the $60 price difference (the RPT-01 sells for $170), youll need to be very dedicated to helping the planet and working out on bright days to find the extra money a worthwhile expense.

Link:
Adidas gives its wireless on-ear workout headphones a solar-powered boost - Digital Trends

Smart Wearables in Healthcare Market Largest Share Segment Accounted for the Upcoming Year 2030

Smart Wearables in Healthcare Market study by Market.Biz gives insights concerning the market elements influencing the market, Market scope, Market division, and overlays shadow upon the leading market players featuring the positive cutthroat scene and patterns beating the years.

The full-size research about Smart Wearables in Healthcare, by Market.Biz is an evident representation of all the fundamental factors predicted after driving the market considerably. A thorough study of Smart Wearables in Healthcare Market helps the consumers over the report, customers, the stakeholders, enterprise owners, or stockholders following recognizing the market in detail. The updated research report file consists of key statistics on the Smart Wearables in the Healthcare market, such as demand rate, an estimated value within the forecast duration 2022 2030, the impacting factors, yet CAGR. Furthermore, the report is diligently segmented as Product-type, Application, End User, and Region.

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The consumers or the readers may depend on the whole of the key statistics or figures and consider all the factors according to graph or their strategies and help to their rank at the top. The analyzers of the updated research report have targeted other solution factors kind as Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats, or Challenges as much properly to accomplish the report all-inclusive. Moreover, experts have used PESTEL analysis of the Smart Wearables in Healthcare Market together with Five Forces. Also, quantitative and qualitative analysis focuses have helped the researchers recognize the Smart Wearables in Healthcare Market deeper than enable players to beget an intense institution in the market.

The analysts who wrote the report classified the global Smart Wearables in Healthcare by product, application, and region. All sectors have been studied in detail, with an emphasis on CAGR, market size, growth potential, market share, and various key factors. The Smart Wearables in Healthcare market regional rating will help players improve their base in the major regional markets. This suggests the opportunities for untapped growth in nearby markets and how capital can be used within the forecast period.

Apple, Fitbit, Jawbone, Misfit, MyKronoz, Samsung, Xiaomi Technology, Garmin Ltd, Qualcomm Technologies, Adidas Group, Sony Corporation, Jawbone, Lifesense Group

Smart Wrist WearablesSmart PatchesSmart ClothesSmart Head / Neck WearablesSmart Ear WearablesSmart Eye WearablesOther Smart Wearables

Activity / Fitness Tracking (SMEs)Monitoring & DiagnosticsOthers

You Can Buy This Report From Here: https://market.biz/checkout/?reportId=372910&type=Single%20User

Regions Covered In Smart Wearables in Healthcare Market Report:

North America (the United States, Canada, and Mexico),

Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, and others),

Europe (Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Russia, and rest) in Europe),

Central and South America (Brazil and the rest of South America)

The Middle East and Africa (GCC countries, Turkey, Egypt, South Africa, etc.).

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the critical segments of the market, certain as much supply over raw materials, hampering the furnish chain, logistics, prices about products, and paltry demand for Smart Wearables in Healthcare. All about it, factors were performed into consideration at some point in the pandemic scenario by using the enterprise owners and then strategy planners. To stabilize the market post-pandemic, businesses took essential decisions and let the market stable. Smart Wearables in Healthcare market choices impacted the manufacturing, procedure of the products, and supply according to retailers. To cope with up including the increasing demand, businesses took more efforts to deliver the right product to the right customers.

NOTE: Our experts observing the circumstance across the globe clarify that the market will create profitable possibilities for makers post the COVID-19 emergency. The report intends to give an extra representation of the most recent situation, monetary lull, and COVID-19 sway on the general business.

Key Takeaways:

-Smart Wearables in Healthcare economic and environmental benefits to improve market opportunities.

-The North American Smart Wearables in Healthcare market will offer lucrative market opportunities during the forecast period.

-the United States and Canada are the largest contributors to the Smart Wearables in Healthcare market.

-The Asia Pacific region will show many opportunities for growth during the forecast period.

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Market Intelligence enables effective decision-making Market estimates and forecasts from 2022 to 2030 Growth opportunities and trend analysis Segment and regional revenue forecast for market evaluation Competitive strategy and analysis of market segments List of product innovations to stay on top. The impact of COVID-19 and how to survive in these fast-growing markets. Market report in PDF, Excel, PPT, and online dashboard versions.

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the new sveltia offices by eeg: a clean and simple aesthetic

PhotographerGonzalo Viramontetakes us on tour inside the newofficesand logistics center of Sveltia, a medical product company based inArgentina. The working hub, completed by EEG Arquitectos, is a two-story building in Cordba, spanning 637 sqm, with a clear and sober design accentuated by plenty of natural light pouring in.

The main entrance to the soon-to-be-operable headquarters stands as a double-height glass box, with a green doorway that projects its vibrant tone across the glazed structure. Complementing the glass box on the ground floor are common rooms, bathrooms, a dining room, a meeting room, a commercial area, and a double-height open floor plan with its own entrance.

all images Gonzalo Viramonte

Meanwhile, theteamat EEG located the human resources, administration, and management areas on the first floor, where a combination of translucent and opaque glass panes with acoustic Durlock partitions creates a corporate ambiance that responds to each sectors functional needs and privacy.

Structure-wise, the foundation of the new Sveltiaofficesis entirely metallic, featuring various columns and beams that make way for great lighting without needing extra support. This facilitates internal distribution while maintaining construction quality and structural safety.

a clean and sober interior design

As for the facades, the architects used concrete blocks for the south front, and polyurethane cored metallic panels for all three others. Such a combination translates into excellent thermal and acoustic insulation, fire resistance, low maintenance, and extended durability.

On the other hand, openings are strategically oriented to capture the most sunlight and optimize ventilation. Each one is composed of an aluminum framework with hermetic double-glazed panes that help regulate indoor temperature, thus considerably reducing air conditioning costs.

the main entrance is a double-height glass box with a bright green doorway

To create the lighting scheme, EEG resorted solely to LED technology, an ideal choice for low-heat emission, brighter and sharper lighting, longer lifespan, and saving energy. Indoor conditioning will be powered by a last-gen individual inverter AC, which allows for regulating frequency and electrical cycle. Finally, a double installment will be set up for gray water collection, storage, and reuse for irrigation.

Link:
new sveltia offices and logistics center by EEG in argentina - Designboom

Will To Live Online recently received an update that added a new event, new rewards, and bug fixes.

New Event

The new event is called Quench the thirst with gasoline. It features a new boss, which is a cybernetic wolf that appears in multiple locations such as Coast, Korovie, Eastern Territories, and Swamps; you can encounter this boss only at night times. If you think it's easy to defeat, think again. The cybernetic wolf can call for drones to help him overcome enemies. But if you beat it, it will reward you with chrome bolts that can be exchanged for event items.

Rewards

After collecting the bolts from defeating the boss or by completing quests, you can trade them for rewards.

One of the rewards is a bike called the Scrambler, which is faster and easier to handle than the moped. While the bike has a higher fuel capacity, it also consumes more fuel when used.

The other exchangeable rewards include a set of biker clothes, consisting of a helmet, vest, and jeans. The vest is light armor that comes in four colors to choose from.

Will To Live Online Update 0.57

Other changes

Ratburger and perfect broth no longer drop out of inventory on death

Now, if the body armor has hand protection, then when it hits the hands, armor plates are no longer used for protection, only armor, and its characteristics. Armor plates, respectively, are not destroyed when shot into the hands

Now the description of body armor indicates the presence or absence of hand protection

Added new mobs: Black jelly

In the "Canyon" location, new objects have been added at the entrance to the "Testing Grounds" location. Players returning from the "Testing Grounds" to the Canyon can now use these hideouts

Reworked indoor lighting for such NPCs as Gosha, Senya, and Victoria

Fixed many bugs in the design of locations

Added new objects in the location "Solnechny Outskirts"

Improved behavior of drones like Goliath

You can read more about the update here.

See the rest here:
Will To Live Online Update 0.57: New Event and Rewards - Player.One

The Masonic Lodges of Great Barrington and West Stockbridge this week secured a special permit to renovate the former Sportsmen's Club in West Stockbridge as a meeting place and event venue.

WEST STOCKBRIDGE The Masonic Lodge received its special permit Thursday to renovate and use the former West Stockbridge Sportsmens Club. Conditions limit outdoor events with more than 25 people to two per month during summer.

Other conditions include events not going later than 9 p.m., not allowing amplified music, minimizing use of outdoor lighting, prohibition of cannabis and restrictions on alcohol use.

There is no restriction on the number of indoor, regular meetings.

In an unanimous vote, the Planning Board approved the permit sought by the Great Barrington Masonic Temple Association, which is collaborating with the West Stockbridge Masonic Lodge, and other county lodges.

The permit comes after a summer of heated opposition by neighbors worried about safety and the loss of tranquility in this neighborhood off East Alford Road.

The contention centered around what, at one point, appeared to be a growing number of members of various lodges driving on the small dead end road for weeknight meetings, as well as the idea of large outdoor parties on the four-acre grounds.

But neighbors, lodge members and attorneys for both parties met privately earlier this month and came to an agreement about conditions. Not all neighbors are happy, however.

While frustration from some quarters was still apparent at the hearing, the lodges will now be able to restore and use a property that was abandoned a decade ago and had deteriorated. The previous owners had stopped paying their real estate taxes.

The former Sportmen's Club in West Stockbridge has been closed for 10 years.

Cooler heads prevailed and I think weve all come to a good conclusion on this, Christopher Tonini told The Eagle.

It apparently wasnt easy.

The lodges attorney, Alexandra Glover, told board members that if just six outdoor events were allowed per year, the lodges charitable purpose would be hard to maintain.

But you know, theyre committing to do it, Glover said.

The lodges also agreed to hours of 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Some friction erupted around this, as board member Susan Coxon wondered how much noise the neighbors make.

How many pool parties do they have amongst these people who are complaining about how many meetings the Masons should have? she asked.

Eric and Robin Hananel, who are close abutters, said they still have a number of concerns, including car lights at night, as well as their property values.

I mean, we go to sleep at, like, nine oclock were not young people, Robin Hananel said.

Alcohol is prohibited from public events, but can be used by members on the property in bring-your-own style.

Attorney William Martin, who represents residents of 13 households, said he wanted the permits conditions to be something thats really simple, easy to see and enforce.

The rest is here:
Masonic lodges secure a permit to revive a former West Stockbridge club. But with conditions - Berkshire Eagle

Gaylord Opryland Resort invites guests to freeze the day this Christmas as the longtime holiday tradition, ICE!, returns to the annual A Country Christmas celebration Nov. 11, 2022 Jan. 1, 2023, after a two-year hiatus.

Using more than 2 million pounds or 1,000 tons of ice, the classic 1964 Christmas animated television special, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, will be brought to life by a team of 40 ice artisans who carve for thirty days to create the nearly 20,000-square-foot, frozen attraction.

Starting with more than 6,200 massive ice blocks created by three different ice manufacturers because of the sheer amount needed carvers will tally more than 12,000 manhours on the project. The artisans, using skills passed down from generation to generation, follow a 300-page design book to create the spectacle.

This year, ICE! will include 12 scenes from Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, featuring classic characters including Clarice, Bumble. Sam the Snowman, Hermey the Elf, and of course Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer himself. Ice carvings range in size from details as tiny as a coin to soaring scenes more than 20 feet tall.

The environment will be kept frozen by a state-of-the-art chilling system which maintains the temperature at a frosty 9 degrees Fahrenheit. And while the 9-degree temperatures turn ICE! into one of the coldest spots in Nashville, guests experiencing the attraction will be provided Gaylord Oprylands signature blue parkas to keep them warm and toasty.

Colored ice (created by a chemist who mixes special food colorings to ensure sculptures maintain their bright colors the entire season), clear ice, and LED lights are all used to create the display, as the frozen fun follows Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer as he guides Santas sleigh on Christmas Eve.

In addition to seeing characters from the classic television special, guests can also take rides down four two-story-tall ice slides and traverse through ice tunnels and arches. The ICE! experience concludes in a separate area dedicated to a beautiful Nativity scene, meticulously carved and shaped in a dramatic display of crystal-clear ice.

The talented carvers who create this arctic artwork will travel more than 6,413 miles from their homes in Harbin, China to Nashville, Tennessee. Known as Ice City, Harbin is no stranger to elaborate ice carvings its home to the worlds largest annual ice and snow sculpting festival. The artisans from Harbin have created ICE! for Gaylord Hotels for many years but havent been able to travel to the United States the past two holiday seasons because of international travel restrictions.

Theres Snow Much More!

While ICE! is the signature attraction for the 39th annual A Country Christmas at Gaylord Opryland, there are plenty more festive activities, events, attractions, and dazzling decorations throughout the 2,888-room property. The entire resort transforms into a holiday wonderland with more than 4 million lights, elaborately themed Christmas trees displayed throughout the property including a fully adorned 48- foot tree, 15,000 poinsettias,15 miles of green garland and 10 miles of hand-tied ribbon. Christmas shows and activities are presented in the atriums, while guests can also enjoy a variety of exciting experiences at Pinetop, an outdoor Appalachian-esque village.

Heres a rundown of the events, live entertainment, hands-on activities, holiday meals and exciting attractions taking place this holiday season at Gaylord Opryland:

Unique Holiday Dining Experiences

Outdoor NativityStep outside of the resort to experience special lighting effects and an audio rendition of the beloved biblical story.

Indoor Adventures

Christmas Hiring Events

Gaylord Opryland will hold several A Country Christmas hiring events beginning August 18 to fill nearly two hundred seasonal part-time and seasonal full-time positions including Special Event Manager, Special Event Coordinator and Special Event Attendants for Retail, Box Office, Delta Riverboat Co. driver, and Attraction locations. For more information on hiring events and to apply online, visit GaylordOprylandHiring.com.

Read more here:
After a Two Year Hiatus, Opryland to Bring Back ICE Attraction This Holiday Season - Williamson Source

7 Health Benefits of Living Outside

Mother Nature sometimes finds it difficult to compete with the inner world. Ultimately, May not offer flat screen TV, air conditioning or WiFi. but It can offer something even more important: through better health, a stronger immune system, better sleep, and less stress.

spend time outside It can improve physical and mental health in many ways. And you dont have to spend many hours outside for those benefits to take effect. According to a 2019 study that included data from 19,806 participants, Spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature can significantly improve health and well-being. Even if there is no greenery around you, spend time in the sun and fresh air Can help you feel better in mind and body.

7 health benefits of spending time outside

1. Breathe Better

Indoor air pollutant concentrations are typically two to five times higher than outside

can cause air pollution allergies, asthma and other respiratory diseases, Something you might already know. But, you will be surprised to know that Indoor air pollutant concentrations are typically two to five times higher than outdoors.

but Spending more time in natural green spaces can help reduce the risk of respiratory problems. A 2016 study examining the relationship between local greening and mortality risk followed 108,630 women for 8 years. compared to people with less vegetation in their neighbourhood, Those with more vegetation were 34% less likely to die from respiratory diseases.

as always, The freshest air is found in places with great air circulation. For example, camping in an open field can give you more pollution respite than simply relaxing on the banks of a river surrounded by skyscrapers and factories.

2. Sleep Better

usually, The bodys internal clock follows the sun, It wakes you up during the day and sleeps at night. Although artificial lighting can mimic natural lightDirect sunlight is 200 times the intensity of office lighting in a closed room. Therefore, sunlight affects circadian rhythms more than electrical light.

Best of sunshine? It doesnt cost anything. To take the daily dose, you just have to go outside. just keep in mind that Sunlight has to enter your eyes to affect your circadian rhythm. If youre hoping to improve your sleep, having a picnic on the beach may help you more than taking a nap in a shady wooded area.

3. Reduction of Depression Symptoms

Sunlight often helps relieve symptoms of depression, such as: Low mood and fatigue. According to science, phototherapy It can help treat both major and seasonal depression. If a patient has a seasonal depression, you can see an improvement After a few days. if you have a major depression, it may take 2 to 5 weeks To notice the improvement.

However, experts They are not yet completely sure how sunlight affects depression. Some believe that sunlight has a protective effect, because Can help the body produce vitamin D. It is also possible that the sun Improves sleep, which in turn reduces the severity of depression symptoms.

4. More Motivation to Exercise

exercising in green spaces can help you increase your motivation to exercise in the futurepartly because exercising outside It can offer a nice change of pace from the gym and can make physical activity more interesting and enjoyable.

Plus, it makes socializing easier, as many gyms have unwritten rules about not chatting with the person on the treadmill next to you. Finally, exercising outside can help you feel lighter and less strenuous, according to 2013 research suggesting it. Outdoor walkers exercise more intensely and report less exertion

You dont have to bike triathlon or ski a mountain to enjoy exercising in nature. any activity that moves your body in a way that is feasible for you, such as gardening, playing with your dog at the park or washing your car, May provide some health benefits.

5. Restoration of Mind

modern world includes lots of intrusive excitement Flickering screen, vibrating phone, rough roads- Competition for our limited attention. This exasperation continues It can increase your stress level without you realizing it.

natural world, Conversely, you can offer A mental and emotional haven for when you need to disconnect and recharge. in nature, soothing attraction to the sensesFrom the scent of flowers to the music of birds songs, They can grab your attention without draining your mental energy.

Research conducted in 2020 shows that Spending time in nature can help you feel more relaxed and focused, Especially when you take the time to observe your surroundings. To get these benefits, you can consider the possibility of carrying out reflective activities at a slow pace, Like hiking in the woods or kayaking on the lake.

6. Improved Immune Function

Expert guidance shows that When youre outside, not to mention other viruses, youre less likely to contract the virus that causes COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2). This is because air circulation can reduce the presence of airborne viruses. In fact, according to 2021 research, Transmission is 18.7 times more likely to occur indoors than outside.

Ignoring the pandemic for the time being, Spending time outside can help your immune system function better. Non-dangerous microorganisms found in nature can exercise your immune system, so to speak, to help prepare you for more serious infections.

If a person lives in a completely sterile environment, his or her immune system may lose its ability to recognize what is dangerous and what is not. So you can trigger a red alert for any microorganism, which can lead to chronic inflammation. So although soap is a wonderful invention, It can also be good to be sloppy from time to time.

7. Myopia Protection

There is some evidence to suggest that Children who spend a lot of time outside are less likely to develop nearsightedness or myopia. In a study conducted in 2020, it included 10,743 children between the ages of 9 and 11 in Taipei. Researchers found that children who spent more time outside at leisure They were 22% less likely to develop myopia than their peers.

Increasing the working distance from the eyes when doing close-up work and taking breaks after 30 minutes of close-up work also provides some protection. Experts have suggested some possible reasons why spending time outside may help prevent myopia:

natural light Provides a brighter, richer collection of wavelengths of light to see.

outdoor Allows your eye to practice seeing objects from different distances.

Light Stimulates the production of dopamine in the retina This prevents the eyeball from stretching and distorting the vision. However, this theory has only been tested on animals.

spoil it It only affects the eye as it grows, so spending time outside may not reverse myopia in adulthood. However, regular outdoor activities during childhood, such as playing ball, swimming or sledding, may save a child from visiting an optometrist later. And, moreover, they provide great opportunities to build family bonds.

read on:

5 Things We Should Do to Protect Nature While Traveling, According to Cond Nast Traveler

Anxiety, stress or fear? A guide to recognizing them and their most common symptoms

Phobias: which are most common and the key to dealing with them in a healthy way

Excerpt from:
Living Outside: 7 Health Benefits According To Science - Nation World News

The outdoor tree lighting will be held at the City Hall Park at 6:00 p.m. Outside attractions include horse-drawn carriage rides, live reindeer, and The Siberian Husky Club. Indoor attractions at the Middleburg Heights Community Center include special musical performances, holiday cookies and refreshments, and free photos with Santa. Games, inflatables and an indoor ice-skating rink will be open at the Community Center beginning at 3:00 p.m.

This free holiday celebration for the entire family is presented by the City Club of Middleburg Heights and the City of Middleburg Heights. In the spirit of the holiday season, non-perishable food donations will be collected at this event to benefit the Middleburg Heights Food Pantry and SCAN Hunger Center.

Continue to visit the Middleburg Heights website atwww.middleburgheights.comfor the full event schedule and more information. See the 2021 Middleburg Heights Community Tree Lighting Festival flyer opens in a new window hereopens PDF file .

Read more:
The 2021 Middleburg Heights Community Tree Lighting Festival Will Be on Friday, November 26th. - Middleburg Heights

As the daylight hours get shorter and the cold weather blows in, some people begin to feel the winter blues.

As the daylight hours get shorter and the cold weather blows in, some people begin to feel the winter blues. For some individuals, these feelings can become overwhelming and have a detrimental impact on daily living.

Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is a form of depression directly tied to the seasonality of weather and daylight changes. Symptoms normally begin when the weather turns colder and daylight decreases in the late fall or early winter and begins to lift when daylight increases and the weather turns warmer in the spring.

Though its very uncommon, some individuals experience the symptoms of SAD during the summer months.

[READ: Is My Depression Getting Worse?]

Who Gets SAD?

According to the American Psychiatric Association, seasonal affective disorder impacts around 5% of adults in the United States, affecting more women than men. ( Children can be affected by SAD too.) It can last around 40% of the year, typically being the most challenging in January and February.

Seasonal affective disorder has been linked to a biochemical imbalance in the brain, and people experience a shift in their internal clock, or circadian rhythm, that then causes them to be off-schedule with their daily life, according to Dr. Krystal Lewis, a clinical psychologist with the National Institute of Mental Health in Bethesda, Maryland.

Other risk factors include:

Genetics. As with other forms of depression, experts believe that family history may play a role. People with SAD may be more likely to have relatives with SAD or a family history of depression or bipolar disorder.

Geography. Those living in colder climates to the north or south of the equator have a greater chance of experiencing SAD. This is due to less daytime light during the winter months.

[READ: Foods and Activities to Fight SAD.]

SAD Symptoms

When the weather starts changing, keep a close eye on a change in symptoms.

Episodes of depression seasonal or not are diagnosed by the presence of significant sad mood or loss of interest or pleasure most of the day for at least two weeks, plus at least four other symptoms that persist during the same time frame and include significant disruptions in sleep, energy and appetite, says Dr. James Murrough, associate professor of psychiatry and neuroscience at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York.

SAD may include some of these signs and symptoms:

Changes in appetite resulting in either gaining or losing weight.

Depression most of the day, nearly every day.

Feeling lethargic or agitated.

Feeling hopeless or worthless.

Having difficulty concentrating or making decisions.

Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed.

Sleep pattern changes, usually sleeping too much.

Social withdrawal.

Thoughts of suicide or death.

Diagnosing SAD

Like many mental health disorders, there is no blood test or brain scan that can detect SAD. Instead, like all forms of depression, SAD is diagnosed through a series of questions collected through a patient questionnaire. There are two tools the Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire (SPAQ) and the Seasonal Health Questionnaire (SHQ) that are widely used.

The SHQ was developed to be more sensitive and specific to identify symptoms of SAD. One study published in the journal BMJ found that the questionnaire was easily completed by patients and that it more precisely diagnosed SAD. This newer tool is a step forward in helping to better diagnose people with SAD, Lewis says.

[See: Apps to Support Your Mental Health]

Treating SAD

There are several different approaches to treating SAD. The mainstays of current SAD treatments include:

Antidepressants.

Bright light therapy.

Cognitive behavioral therapy.

Exercise.

Healthy sleep hygiene.

As all three treatment options can take time to work, beginning your treatment plan proactively in early fall can be very effective in preventing the symptoms from occurring in patients that have a clear history of seasonal onset depression.

Research has demonstrated that people can see improvements after just one week of light treatment, but it is recommended that the treatment be continued throughout the season, beginning in the fall, Lewis says.

These options are typically used to treat SAD:

Antidepressant Medications All types of depression, including SAD, are associated with changes in serotonin and other neurotransmitters. Your doctor may recommend using a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant or a different type of antidepressant called bupropion as part of your treatment plan.

Keep in mind that most antidepressants take a few weeks for the full benefits to begin, and it may be necessary to try more than one to find out which is best for you. Any side effects should be reported to your doctor and used to evaluate if a medication is right for your treatment plan.

Bright Light Therapy Bright light therapy, also called phototherapy, has shown to be very effective for people dealing with SAD and is usually considered the first line of treatment. The decline in sunlight during the winter months can cause a drop in serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, which can contribute to depression.

According to Murrough, while the reason why bright light therapy is effective for SAD is not fully known, several randomized trials have provided support for its effectiveness. It is thought to help correct a misalignment between the sleep cycle and circadian rhythms in the body that is believed to contribute to the cause of SAD.

Bright light therapy is typically done in the morning soon after waking. It involves sitting in front of a bright light therapy lamp (10,000 lux), which is about 20 times brighter than normal indoor lighting for anywhere between 20 to 45 minutes. A quality therapy lamp typically can be found for under $50, and a quick search online will yield many options.

Its purpose is to mimic the effects that sunlight has on your body, which results in chemical changes in the brain boosting your mood. There is no need to worry about skin-damaging UV light as these therapy lamps filter it out. Talk to your doctor before using one as certain eye diseases or medications that increase light sensitivity need to be taken into consideration when deciding if this is the right treatment option for you.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Commonly referred to as talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy aims to improve mental health by focusing on challenging and changing negative thoughts and behaviors, improving emotional regulation and developing personal coping strategies.

Behavioral activation, a specific and important CBT skill, is a highly effective strategy for treating symptoms of depression. It encourages people to engage in pleasurable activities, even when one feels they dont have the energy or desire to do so. It helps to break the cycle of low mood and energy, Lewis says.

Exercise Exercising regularly will help provide your body with energy as well as a mood boost throughout the day. Bonus points for any physical activity outside, especially mid-day when the sun is at its highest, as more time outdoors can help supplement the natural decrease in sun exposure that occurs as winter progresses.

As daylight decreases and the cold weather increases, its a natural instinct to want to spend more time indoors with less physical activity and social interaction. Pushing back against that instinct is important however, as interacting with others and getting out of the house to do things you enjoy are both critical to mental health.

Healthy Sleep Hygiene For individuals who are prone to SAD, making sleep a priority both falling asleep and waking up at the same time every day is critical.

Ensure you are getting enough rest but not oversleeping and that you are eating foods that provide good nutrition, like foods with vitamin D, Lewis says. There is an association between vitamin D and serotonin activity. Due to the decrease in serotonin that can occur during seasonal transitions, it is important to increase foods with vitamin D and engage in activities that will help raise serotonin levels.

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Shedding Light on Seasonal Affective Disorder originally appeared on usnews.com

Read this article:
Shedding Light on Seasonal Affective Disorder - WTOP

If you have an event to add to list, please email information to listings@gazette.com.Some in-person events might be canceled due to COVID-19. Before attending, make sure event is taking place.

THANKSGIVING EVENTS

Tuesday: A Foolproof Thanksgiving Cooking Class 6:30-9:30 p.m., The Seasoned Chef, 999 Jasmine St., Suite 100, Denver, $85. Registration: 303-377-3222,theseasonedchef.com.

HOLIDAY EVENTS

Music

Dec. 11:Trace Bundy's Acoustic Holiday With Glen Phillips, 8 p.m., Boulder Theater, Boulder, $25-$35. Tickets required:axs.com.

Trace Bundy's Acoustic Holiday

Dec. 14: Barry Manilow - A Very Barry Christmas 7:30 p.m., Bellco Theatre, Denver, $19.75 and up. Tickets required:axs.com.

Dec. 15: Chris Isaak Holiday Tour 7:30 p.m., Paramount Theatre, Denver, $49 and up. Tickets required:ticketmaster.com.

Stage

Nov. 19-Jan. 2: Cirque Dreams Holidaze Gaylord Rockies, Aurora, $29 and up. Tickets required:tickets.gaylordrockies.com.

Dec. 11-23: The Nutcracker Presented by Ballet Ariel, Lakewood Cultural Center, 470 S. Allison Parkway, Lakewood, $25-$38. Tickets required:lakewood.org/tickets.

Shopping

Nov. 27-28: RiNo Holiday Bazaar 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Zeppelin Station, 3501 Wazee St. and surrounding streets, Denver. Free admission tickets:tinyurl.com/2p3tv98z.

Dec. 3-19: Belmar Holiday Bazaar 4-10 p.m. Fridays, noon-8 p.m. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sundays, Belmar Plaza and indoor shopping hall, 439 S. Teller St., Lakewood. Free admission tickets:tinyurl.com/tzjt28xh.

Dec. 4-19: Belleview Station Holiday Bazaar 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays, Belleview Station, 6785 E. Chenango Ave., Denver. Free admission tickets:tinyurl.com/4j9k6ukz.

Charity

Through Nov. 30: Christmas Toy Drive New, unwrapped toys and cash donations can be dropped of at High Country Armory, 1600 W. 13th Ave. Denver and LT Firearms, 8119 Shaffer Parkway, unit B, Littleton; concealedcarryforfree.com/free-ccw-classes/colorado-springs-free-ccw.

Food and Drink

Nov. 11: Holiday Pies and Pints Cooking Class 6:30-9:30 p.m., The Seasoned Chef, 999 Jasmine St., Suite 100, Denver, $85. Registration: 303-377-3222,theseasonedchef.com.

Nov. 18: A Vegan Holiday Cooking Class 6:30-9:30 p.m., The Seasoned Chef, 999 Jasmine St., Suite 100, Denver, $85. Registration: 303-377-3222,theseasonedchef.com.

Nov. 21: Holiday Pie - Make, Take and Bake at Home Cooking Class 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Cook Street School of Culinary Arts, 43 W. 9th Ave., Denver, $119. Registration required:cookstreet.com.

Kids and pets

Nov. 19-Jan. 1: The Polar Express Train Ride Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad;durangotrain.com.

The Polar Express Train Ride

Nov. 26-Jan. 2: Luminova Holidays Dazzling lights, candy cane tunnel, rides and more, Elitch Gardens, 2000 Elitch Circle, Denver. Go online for ticket prices. Tickets required:elitchgardens.com.

Other events

Nov. 14: Holiday Wreath Workshop with Cocktails 2-5 p.m., Dairy Black, The Maven's Windsor Room, Denver, $150. Registration required:tinyurl.com/mttrta9m.

Nov. 19-Jan. 8: Blossoms of Light Celebrate the holiday season with a dazzling and ever-changing display of light and color, closed Nov. 25 and Dec. 25, Denver Botanic Gardens York Street, Denver. Tickets:botanicgardens.org/events/special-events/blossoms-light.

Nov. 26-Jan. 2: Trails of Light A winding path glistening with lights that illuminate the Colorado countryside, Chatfield Farms, Littleton. Tickets:botanicgardens.org/events/special-events/trail-lights.

Dec. 3-4: 1940s White Christmas Ball Doors open at 3:30 p.m., Hyatt Regency Downtown Convention Center, Denver. Tickets required:1940sball.org.

Dec. 4: Lighting of Breckenridge and Race of the Santas With 250,000 LED holiday lights, Breckenridge;gobreck.com/event/lighting-breckenridge-race-santas.

NEW YEAR'S EVE EVENTS

Dec. 31: Crumb's New Year's Eve Boulder Bash 8 p.m., Boulder Theater, Boulder, $35-$39.50. Tickets required:axs.com.

Read more:
2021 holiday events in and around the Denver area - Denver Gazette