Winter in Virginia Beach means that there are fewer sunny days and daylight hours until the weather warms up. This time of year, it starts getting dark around 4:30 pm. Fewer daylight hours can have a significant impact on people’s physical and mental health. Some people experience Seasonal Affective Disorder in the winter. When there are fewer daylight hours, it can affect people’s energy levels, anxiety, mood, sleep, and appetite. One way to combat this effect is by examining the lighting in your home. Might you benefit from a lighting upgrade?

Seasonal Affective Disorder can be disruptive to your routine. It is believed that less exposure to sunlight causes reduced serotonin and melatonin production in the body. You may experience difficulty concentrating or making decisions, or sleep disturbances. To combat Seasonal Affective Disorder, consider investing in a sun lamp. There are different types of sun lamps (some emit UVB rays, which can help you synthesize vitamin D) and others use a specific wavelength to support your body’s natural circadian rhythms. 

Additionally, you can swap out your regular lightbulbs for smart bulbs that will automatically change their color temperature from day to night. Cooler, blueish light during the day stimulates the brain, and warmer, yellow light at night can help promote relaxation. 

If you keep houseplants, consider getting some grow lights. Your plants are used to going a little dormant in the winter, but if you notice wilting, fading, or dropping leaves, that’s a sign that they will absolutely appreciate some supplemental light. There are bulbs you can install in regular lamps or ceiling fixtures, gooseneck LED lights that you can clip onto a plant’s pot, or LED panels that you can mount above your plants. 

These small upgrades are sure to make the winter doldrums more bearable. If you’re ready to start the new year in a new apartment, contact our Spence Crossing leasing office to book an appointment for a tour.