It’s that time of year when many people start to feel a subtle shift in mood. Energy dips, irritability creeps in, and motivation seems to disappear. For some, these changes are mild; for others, they mark the start of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

Some of my clients who are particularly sensitive to the darker months start “winter therapy” as soon as the days shorten. Others wait until after the holidays—when stress, exhaustion, and post-holiday recovery collide—to reach out for help. Either way, this is the perfect season to talk about light therapy boxes.

What a Light Therapy Box Can Do

Whether or not you’ve been formally diagnosed with SAD, a light therapy box can help offset those winter “blahs.” If someone can get out side for atleast 20 minutes a day consistently, even on cloudy or rainy days, then they probably don’t need a light therapy box. But for those who cannot be as consistent due to their schedule or motivation then a light therapy box is an excellent wellness tool.

I typically suggest sitting about 14 inches away from the light box for 20 minutes in the morning while you have breakfast or start your day. You don’t need to stare directly into it—just let the light reach your eyes as you go about your routine. Think of it as giving your body a gentle sunrise indoors.

Interestingly, many people find benefit from using their light box even outside of winter. I’ve had clients use them during hot summer months when they spend most of their time indoors avoiding the heat. The goal is the same: supporting your body’s rhythm and mood when you’re not getting natural sunlight.

Why Light Matters So Much

Daily exposure to full-spectrum light helps synchronize your body’s internal clock to a natural 24-hour day. Without it, your biological rhythm can drift to longer cycles—sometimes 36 or even 72 hours—which throws off your sleep, mood, and energy.

When your body is aligned with daylight, neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and melatonin regulate properly. You get clearer signals to fall asleep, wake up, feel motivated, and manage stress hormones like cortisol.

Simply put:

Regular exposure to light doesn’t just lift your mood—it helps your entire body function more efficiently.

Sunshine for Mind, Body, and Spirit

Our bodies are wired for sunlight. When we receive enough bright, full-spectrum light, we thrive mentally, physically, and emotionally. Light therapy can be a powerful way to bring a bit of that sunshine indoors during darker seasons—or any time you feel your spark fading.

Want to learn more?
Click here to access our subscription page

which includes our weekly bonus content and our growing library of wellness information, tools, and practices. Resources added this week include:

• A PDF guide on choosing the right light therapy box
• A brief history of light therapy and how it became a trusted wellness tool