Advice about light-boxes (2 Jan 02) 3messages

Topic: Advice about light-boxes
posted by Jennie on 2002-01-02 04:25:59




I have been using my lightbox for 8 days now and haven't really noticed any improvement in my mood yet. It is a stong lightbox (1000 lux) so I only need to spend a maximum of 45 minutes sitting in from of it. I use it in the mornings.

Does anyone know how long it usually takes to notice any benefit from a lightbox?

I would welcome any advice.

Thank you.


Paula

Topic: Re: Advice about light-boxes
posted by Paula on 2002-01-03 08:23:50







Hi Jennie,

Stick with it girl! Maybe increase the time you use it, if you can. Remember the 'recommended' time, is just that!!! We are all individuals and I'm sure everyone will react to light therapy in different ways.

I am no expert on light boxes, so can only give you my own experience... I got my light box last Feb, I have one at work & one at home. I must admit I did NOT feel an 'instant' lift when I first started to use the box last year, but did not feel any worse - which was a bonus! This year I have used my lights since early September time, and now find that my body is telling me how much light to have.

I know this must sounds nuts!
It is difficult to explain, but will try... during the Christmas break I had no set routine for using the light (naughty I know), I have found that yesterday at work I had my light on for most of the morning 2-3 hours and really felt good for this, today I only felt the need for about an hour and that has been in two sessions. I guess my point is the same as what I started with ... we are all individual and as such have different needs.

I hope this has helped in some way, and wish you many happy hours with your light box.

Best wishes to you.
Kind regards Paula :-)



Karl

Topic: Re: Advice about light-boxes
posted by Karl on 2002-01-03 17:08:49









Hiya,

I found it did take a couple of weeks. I also find it works best for me if I use it in the mornings. There is scientific evidence supporting this too.

I also find that St Johns helps too. It really depends on the individual, but its worth a try. Again 2 weeks seems to be how long it takes to alter my mood significantly.

So as Paula says, stick with it :-)

Take care,

Karl