Gray skies, cold temps, low light: a recipe for SAD

Dr. Sophia Wu, a neurologist and neuroscientist who sees patients locally at the Pureland Dzogchen Buddhism Foundation in Bentonville, said that patients most commonly report feelings of sadness and fatigue. Often, people experiencing SAD sleep and eat excessively and crave high calorie foods, resulting in weight gain. She said that the disorder also impacts mental functioning, noting that studies have shown that students have lower grades during colder months compared to warm months.

.....

Ado Lama said that by training the mind with meditation, people can build up a “defensive system” so that they are not impacted by changes around them.

“If you build up a strong foundation, you won’t be easily interfered with by atmospheric or environmental fluctuations,” he said.

Northern Virginian Daily; Feb 19, 2025