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Don’t let the darkness get you down by Ca itl in Dow l i n g , co n t ribut ing wr i ter
Could falling back be making us fat? A British professor seems to think so. Mayer Hillman, the senior fellow emeritus at the University of Westminster in London, has written an essay in the British Medical Journal claiming that losing an hour of daylight each fall could be contributing to obesity and illness levels in the U.K. and abroad. Hillman discusses the lack of exercise in the U.K. as the main factor in the country’s rising obesity levels, and notes that an extra hour of darkness in the evenings makes people even less likely to go outside and be active. “It’s an interesting hypothesis, but I don’t think we have any evidence from rigorous research to back that up,” says Dr. James Lu, the acting Medical Officer for the North Shore. Lu notes that a lack of daylight can bring about a slump in the psyche, often leading to a mood disorder, which affects a substantial amount of Canadians every year, Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.). “Seasonal Affective Disorder ... is influenced by the ability of the person who is affected by it to have enough exposure to sunlight or UV light, or light in general.” Lu suggests that our location in the
northern hemisphere is the main issue for local sufferers. Because the difference in the length of daylight between winter and summer days is so pronounced due to our latitudinal whereabouts, that the effects of S.A.D. are increased. Among the symptoms of S.A.D. is a craving for carbohydrates, or “comfort foods,” which can lead to weight gain. Lu feels that a direct link between the clocks going back in fall and obesity is rather tenuous, but considers that this possibility should be of interest to researchers and warrants further examination. One recommended treatment for S.A.D. is light therapy, using fluorescent lamps to replicate the additional hours of daylight in the summer months. Alternatively, one effective remedy for both is already programmed into us. “Going back to how we’re built and what we’re meant to be as a human living being – we’re meant to be moving,” says Lu. When we are depressed, we go against our natural tendencies to be active. By getting the motivation to up our levels of fitness, we can stave off the blues and any unwanted pounds. The key is to be prepared for the oncom-
ing time and weather fluctuation, says Lu. “Seasons change and we do need to adjust in terms of physical activity.” Lu recommends braving the winter chill and getting active outside. “You could still go for a walk or run in the winter in Vancouver, you may need to adjust to the rain or dress appropriately.” At this time of year, raking leaves is a great way to stay in shape, he says. Later on during the winter, shoveling snow is marvelous for the cardiovascular system. Lu recommends making small changes to your daily routine that can be kept up throughout the year, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevators at work. So despite the extra hour of darkness brought about by turning back the clocks, we can still make the most of our rainy, dark winter months. Get up to the mountains, strap on your skis, snowboards or snowshoes, or get to a fun dance class at your local gym. Get motivated and feel better all year round.
Winter Exercise ideas: Outside Add lights to your running gear to exercise more safely outdoors. Lights that can be fastened to your belt, bag or buttonholes are available at MEC from $3.75. See why the grey winters here are an inspiration to so many. Admire the scenery and enjoy the snow. Grouse Mountain is easily accessible by car and transit and offers many different activities, including skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and ice skating.
Inside Look into the inexpensive and fun fitness programs at your local community centres. Why not try a class, or enjoy a dip at your local swimming pool. Visit one of the wide varieties of yoga classes for beginners to advanced yogis and feel your spirits rise.
Give a Gift and Receive a Gift! Buy a $50 Gift Certificate and Receive a $10 Gift Certificate Yourself! This holiday season give and receive the gift of health and wellness. Vancouver Park Board gift certificates are accepted at all Park Board pools, rinks, fitness centres, golf courses, and attractions. Buy a $50 gift certificate from November 23rd to December 25th and receive a $10 gift certificate for your own use!
Home for the Holidays? Check out our special holiday public swim and skate hours and drop-in for some festive, fun activity. Or, drop-in to our fitness centres for the same, low price. View our schedules online at vancouverparks.ca!
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