Sunshine

The first warm days of spring have finally arrived after a long, cold winter. The warmer weather and sunshine are instant mood-lifters. And it's not just because we can go finally outside without three sweaters, two scarves and a parka. Sunshine increases the body's production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, appetite, memory, and sleep. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects 4-6% of the population--higher in northern and southern latitudes. It more frequently affects young women, and strikes between October and April. But even if you don't suffer from SAD, you can still feel battered by the end of a Canadian winter, and absolutely grateful for the early, sunny days of spring. I don't know about you, but I'm heading outside for a sunny Sunday. Sometimes feeling better is just that simple.