Yes, the nights are fairly drawing in, and with the clocks having gone back this weekend, we can conclude that Winter is definitely coming. But do not fear the darkness, because East Dunbartonshire residents are, once again, being offered the chance to tackle the winter blues at their local library.
Residents can enjoy 30-minute sessions of light therapy as part of their membership from the start of November as they curl up with a book. East Dunbartonshire Libraries are the first Scottish library service to offer this as part of library membership.
Reduced exposure to sunlight during the shorter winter days and indoor working can disrupt our body clocks and may contribute to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or winter blues. Light therapy lamps have been found to help lift mood, boost concentration, restore energy levels and treat the symptoms of SAD.
Lamps will be available all day, with no booking required, at the following libraries: Bishopbriggs, Lennoxtown, Milngavie and William Patrick Library in Kirkintilloch.
EDLC Chair Jim Gibbons, said,
EDLC is committed to providing services and resources which promote positive mental health and wellbeing for all and I'm proud that we're the first library service in Scotland to offer this innovative light therapy service.
"As Winter approaches we are prepared to respond to all the challenges that the seasonal weather brings. The light produced by the light box simulates the sunlight that's missing during the darker winter months and some people with SAD find that light therapy can help improve their mood and boost their energy levels considerably.”
The Lumie light therapy lamps were acquired in 2022 thanks to funding from East Dunbartonshire Voluntary Action (EDVA).
