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Mother breastfeeds her newborn baby after a cesarean section

<h2>Understanding a C-Section</h2><p>A Cesarean section, commonly known as a C-section, is a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through incisions in the abdomen and uterus. While this procedure is relatively common, understanding the holistic approach to preparing for and recovering from a C-section can help ensure a smoother experience.</p><p>It is essential to discuss with your healthcare provider the reasons a C-section might be recommended and any potential risks involved. Being informed empowers you to make the best decisions for you and your baby.</p><figure id="figure-viuxyjt3idm8g1pbnj"><img id="viuxyjt3idm8g1pbnj" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/aonlIY2XLZxl1hVT4xxsUlXolD6GWqNJZ9WhiIkfKjRLTmRGq5SxENq4mDHswy3N.jpeg" alt="c section surgery" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/aonlIY2XLZxl1hVT4xxsUlXolD6GWqNJZ9WhiIkfKjRLTmRGq5SxENq4mDHswy3N.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>Preparing for a C-Section</h2><h3>What to Pack <br></h3><ul><li><strong>Headphones and a good playlist or podcast: </strong>you are typically allowed to bring headphones into the OR with you. Plan ahead and have a good playlist or meditation to listen to at the time of the procedure if that's helpful. <br></li><li><strong>Grounding Object: </strong>bring something heavy like a rock or crystal you can hold to help you ground in the moment.</li><li><strong>Essential oils or flower essences: </strong>it can be nice to have a little room spray with a relaxing essential oil like lavender. <br></li><li><strong>Loose fitted clothing:</strong> you will have a fresh incision on your abdomen so be sure to bring a loose dress or jumpsuit that will be comfortable.</li><li><strong>Depends: </strong>yes adult diapers. You will be glad you have them. They fit comfortable over your incision and are much easier than dealing with a pad or the weird hospital underwear they give you. <br></li><li><strong>Healing Salve or Lotion:</strong> it can be nice to have an herbal salve to rub on your belly both pre and post-op. Follow your doctor's instructions and do not place directly on the incision. <br></li><li><strong>Lip Balm:</strong> your lips will be chapped after surgery. <br></li><li><strong>Abdominal binder: </strong>they may provide one for you but you may also want to look into a waist trainer that's a little easier to put on by yourself. Ask you medical team when it's safe to use this. <br></li><li><strong>Snacks:</strong> bring some healthy snacks and a couple special treats for yourself. You can't eat before the procedure but you will be hungry afterwards and hospital food is terrible.</li><li><strong>Herbal tea: </strong>bring a nice bag of tea to have the morning after you deliver. <br></li></ul><h2>Prior to Surgery</h2><p>Make sure you talk to your medical team about what to expect. Communicate your needs directly. You can request a clear or opaque curtain depending on your preference of how much you would like to see. You can typically bring 1 support person. Discuss your plan with that support person ahead of time. Communicate what's helpful for you. People often assume you'd like distraction and more information but if that's not helpful you can ask them to not talk to you during the procedure if you like to retreat into your own world. Make it your own and advocate for yourself. <br></p><h2>Post-Surgery Recovery</h2><h3>Physical Healing</h3><p>The first 6 weeks will really be about getting as much rest as you can while taking care of a newborn. Try not to do too much, let your community support you and get as much rest as possible. You may want to arrange meals ahead of time. Enlist the support of family and friends to help with other children. <br></p><h3>Emotional Well-being</h3><p>The postpartum period can be emotionally challenging. Make sure you get the support you need. If you take mental health medications make sure you continue them post-partum and have frequent check-ins with your doctor. If you don't typically take mental health medication but notice you are feeling down, you can always do a consultation to see what would be helpful. If you have a therapist make sure you're meeting with them regularly, if you don't, consider getting one. At Betula Mental Health, we can help you navigate mental health resources and find what's right for you. <br></p><figure id="figure-yaoe4rbttpm8g1pnt5"><img id="yaoe4rbttpm8g1pnt5" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/18yLAS1J2VWQrrglwd4E57UlvQHzi5mhMjAYpr8Gz70gjBT8faHsoAHW2DrvIkBK.jpeg" alt="mom newborn recovery" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/18yLAS1J2VWQrrglwd4E57UlvQHzi5mhMjAYpr8Gz70gjBT8faHsoAHW2DrvIkBK.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>Nutritional Support for Recovery</h2><p>Nourishing your body with the right foods can significantly impact your recovery. Focus on a diet rich in proteins, healthy fats, and vitamins. Hydration is equally important, so drink plenty of water throughout the day.</p><ul><li><strong>Proteins:</strong> Essential for tissue repair and healing.</li><li><strong>Fruits and Vegetables:</strong> Packed with vitamins and antioxidants to boost immunity.</li><li><strong>Whole Grains:</strong> Provide energy and aid digestion.</li></ul><p>Consult with a nutritionist if you need personalized dietary advice tailored to support your recovery journey.</p><h2>Recover after 6 weeks</h2><p>At 6 weeks you are often cleared from a surgical perspective. Please note that it will still take a year to fully recovery from both surgery and childbirth. Be gentle with yourself and your body. It will take time. <br></p><ul><li>Start to walk regularly</li><li>Find a good core program - I really like <a href="https://restoreyourcore.com/">https://restoreyourcore.com/</a><br></li><li>Keep up with your nutrition and hydration <br></li><li>Continue to support your mental health</li></ul><p>Your journey is far from over at 6 weeks. Do not let your guard down and do what you need to do to restore your health. Both surgery and childbirth take a large toll on your body so get the rest and recovery you need to feel like youself again.</p><h2>Locations</h2><p>At Betula Mental Health our services are all online but we are licensed in both Illinois and Texas. Dr. Craig attended both undergrad and medical school at Texas A&amp;M and has been practicing in the city of Chicago for 7 years now. If we can support you in this journey please book an intake session! <br></p>

Holistic Guide to C-Section: Preparing and Healing

Human Crowd Forming Gender Equality Symbol on White Background

<h2>Understanding the Natural Childbirth Movement</h2><p>Natural childbirth is often heralded as a return to a more authentic and empowering birthing experience. The movement advocates for minimal medical intervention during labor and delivery, emphasizing techniques like breathing exercises, laboring positions, and sometimes home births. However, beneath its empowering veneer, the natural childbirth movement has roots that are intertwined with misogynistic ideologies.</p><figure id="figure-vsorh156m8g1ayzh"><img id="vsorh156m8g1ayzh" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/3bqi0ZpukJWDBLbwqCfs04AgTfm1B7FfqFbFCgl85wJmsGlC1A19OEoMAET9hOQl.jpeg" alt="woman in labor" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/3bqi0ZpukJWDBLbwqCfs04AgTfm1B7FfqFbFCgl85wJmsGlC1A19OEoMAET9hOQl.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>The Historical Context</h3><p>If you’ve ever paid attention to language around birth you will notice the common use of the term “natural.” Prior to birth, this conversation even starts at conception. Often people will say “oh did you conceive naturally” which means without reproductive assistance like in-vitro fertilization. This carries on through pregnancy and birth where people often ask, without reservation, “do you plan to deliver naturally?” This may seem benign on the surface but all we have to do is think of the opposite of the word “natural” to appreciate the bias that comes into play here.&nbsp;</p><p><br>Calling unmedicated birth “natural” implies that medicated births, often referring to the use of an epidural or a c-secion is therefore “unnatural.” What a harmful implication. Once again, you see this starting at the process of conception. This terminology certainly implies that assisted reproduction is “unnatural.”&nbsp;</p><p><br>So where did this term “natural childbirth” come from? A white man in the 1930s named Grantly Dick-Read. He has been criticized as being anti-feminist which you can appreciate through some of his quotes…</p><p><br>"Woman fails when she ceases to desire the children for which she was primarily made. Her true emancipation lies in freedom to fulfill her biological purposes.”</p><p><br>"The mother is the factory, and by education and care she can be made more efficient in the art of motherhood."</p><p><br>“the perfection of womanhood” which he defined by being fully conscious and present for birth.</p><p><br></p><h3>Misogynistic Undercurrents</h3><p>The natural childbirth movement, despite its intentions, can inadvertently perpetuate misogynistic ideologies by promoting a one-size-fits-all approach to childbirth. Women who choose or require medical interventions may be judged or shamed for not having a 'natural' birth, reinforcing the notion that their choices or bodies are inadequate.</p><figure id="figure-n222jf2rvdm8g1b449"><img id="n222jf2rvdm8g1b449" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/5kTjoPHaSj7Pg9qgavEQUsyoVI6gcKISnF8Zf1sgKF0a1ZBhKrQNvh1zulb7LgnE.jpeg" alt="childbirth options" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/5kTjoPHaSj7Pg9qgavEQUsyoVI6gcKISnF8Zf1sgKF0a1ZBhKrQNvh1zulb7LgnE.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><p>Additionally, the movement often glorifies pain as a rite of passage, suggesting that enduring childbirth without pain relief is a testament to a woman's strength. This narrative can be damaging, as it dismisses the valid needs and preferences of those who seek pain management during labor.</p><h3>Toxic Femininity <br></h3><p>Often as a society we talk about toxic masculinity, but what about toxic femininity? Could the pressure of having a picture perfect conception, pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding experience be toxic femininity? In my experience, it absolutely can. There is no such thing as a perfect journey to motherhood. These are completely absurd expectations we place on women. Who could possibly live up to this? It’s really just a recipe for birthing people to feel endless guilt.&nbsp;</p><p><br>There is another landmark book that’s often cited in the world of “natural” birth written by Ina May Gaskin called Spiritual Midwifery. It’s an interesting book and details the journey of a midwife on The Farm who does home births. If you read the book you can appreciate the beauty that comes with an uncomplicated home birth; however, you may also notice how many babies were lost in the process. While they had exceptionally positive outcomes with regards to maternal mortality, they also lost 7 babies including Ina May’s.&nbsp;</p><p><br>Surely, people who choose home births easily face as much criticism as people who choose a medical process. Ideally we would stop feeling so entitled to opinions on what women and birthing people do with their bodies. There’s nothing like having a baby to make you appreciate the endless opinions people have about women’s bodies. “You are going to breastfeed aren’t you?” “Oh, you plan to have a c-section. Why?” “Did you deliver naturally?” “Oh, you did IVF.”&nbsp;</p><h3>A Call for Inclusivity</h3><p>There is no easy way to give birth. A c-section is not the easy way out nor it IVF (ask anyone who's had either). The guilt and shame that come along with trying to start a family is truly endless. Let's support each other's decisions and medical needs. People are often shamed for medical needs completely outside of their control. From IVF to medical births to home births to formula vs. breastfeeding, let's be supportive rather than judgemental. <br></p>

Examining the Misogynistic Roots of the Natural Childbirth Movement

<p>We are excited to introduce our new membership plan, designed to provide comprehensive care for just $125/month with an annual committment or $150/month for a monthly membership. This plan ensures that you receive the holistic care you need without worrying about the cost.</p><h2>What Does the Membership Plan Include?</h2><p>Our membership plan offers a range of benefits that cater to your mental health needs. Here’s what you can expect:</p><ul><li>60 minute intake session (psychiatric diagnostic evaluation)</li><li>9 medication management visits per year (30 minutes each)</li><li>Completion of paperwork like FMLA or letters of support</li><li>Accessibility to you care team with reliable responses&nbsp;</li><li>While this DOES NOT include therapy we will coordinate either with your therapist or refer you to a therapist we know and trust</li><li>Cost is $125/month with annual committment or $150/month for month to month</li><li>One time $100 intiation fee (waived with annual commitment)</li></ul><p><span style="font-family: var(--head-fontFamily); font-size: calc(32px * var(--head-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--head-fontStyle, normal); font-weight: var(--head-fontWeight, 500); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" data-mce-style="font-family: var(--head-fontFamily); font-size: calc(32px * var(--head-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--head-fontStyle, normal); font-weight: var(--head-fontWeight, 500); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">How to Join</span><br></p><p><a title="Sign Up Here" href="https://intakeq.com/booking/iq1wiy" data-mce-href="https://intakeq.com/booking/iq1wiy">Sign Up Here</a><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><p>Joining our membership plan is simple. You can sign up online and choose either the annual membership option for $125/month or the month to month option at $150/month. Our team is ready to assist you with the enrollment process.</p><p>We believe that mental health care should be accessible and affordable. With our new membership plan, you can take the first step towards better mental health today.</p><h2>About Dr. Craig<br data-mce-bogus="1"></h2><p>Dr. Craig received both her B.S. and M.D. at Texas A&amp;M University. &nbsp;She completed her Psychiatry Residency at University of Illinois at Chicago. &nbsp;Dr. Craig is board certified in General Adult Psychiatry. &nbsp;After finishing her residency she went on to be the first full-time psychiatrist at Howard Brown Health (a local LGBT community organization). She built the department from 2 staff members to a team of 7 psychiatrists and nurse practitioners. She also served as head of the psychiatry department. From there she went on to work full-time at the VA where she has had a focus in trauma and PTSD working in the Auburn Gresham neighborhood.</p><p>Dr. Craig has also had a complicated journey building her own family. This has given her both personal and professional experience with infertility and treatments like IVF. She is passionate about women's health and loves supporting women through fertility challenges, loss, perinatal mental health and the postpartum period. She also has an apprection for the unique challenges the LGBT community has when it comes to building a family.&nbsp;</p><p>She is also an herbalist and enjoys growing and making her own medicine from plants. She likes to combine the knowledge gained through both medical school and her herbal studies for a unique approach to psychiatry. She likes to combine ancient wisdom with modern medicine.</p>

Introducing Our New Membership Plan: Comprehensive Care for $125/Month

<h2>Understanding Holistic Psychiatry</h2><p>Holistic psychiatry looks at the whole person. It considers mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health. This approach can help people find balance in all areas of life. It is different from traditional psychiatry, which often focuses only on symptoms.</p><p>In Illinois, many people are turning to holistic psychiatry. They want a more comprehensive way to manage mental health conditions. This method can include therapy, lifestyle changes, and natural treatments.</p><p>Through virtual sessions, psychiatrists can provide therapy, guidance, and support. They can also monitor progress and make necessary adjustments to treatment plans. This makes it easier for people to stay on track with their mental health goals.</p><p>Common treatments include:</p><ul><li>Therapy and counseling</li><li>Mindfulness and meditation</li><li>Nutrition and exercise plans</li><li>Herbal and natural remedies</li><li>Mental Health medications</li></ul><p>These methods can work together to improve overall well-being.</p><h3>Accessing Holistic Psychiatry in Illinois</h3><p>If you live in Illinois, you have several options for accessing holistic psychiatry. Many clinics offer virtual care, making it easy to get started. You can search online for providers who specialize in this approach.</p><p>When choosing a provider, look for someone who is experienced and certified. It is also important to find a good fit. The right psychiatrist will listen to your needs and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan.</p><p>During the first session, your psychiatrist will ask about your health history and current concerns. They will then suggest a treatment plan that fits your needs. Follow-up sessions will help track your progress and make any needed changes.</p><p>Virtual care offers a convenient way to receive holistic psychiatric treatment. It can help you achieve better mental health from the comfort of your home.</p><p>If you are looking for a new way to manage your mental health, consider Betula Mental Health. With virtual care, you can start your journey to better well-being today. Start here to find the best online psychiatrist.</p>

Holistic Psychiatry in Illinois: Virtual Care for Mental Health Conditions

<h2>Understanding Night Weaning</h2><p>Are you feeling exhausted and burnt out by breastfeeding but not quite ready to wean? Nightweaning may be for you!&nbsp;</p><p>Night weaning is the process of reducing and eventually stopping nighttime feedings for your baby. This step can be challenging for both parents and babies. It's important to approach it gently and with a combination of patience and determination. It can be a nice alternative to fully weaning.&nbsp;</p><p>Many parents wonder when the right time is to start night weaning. Nightweaning is not recommended prior to 12 months of age. Often people recommend 18 months of age because the child is more able to understand the concept, but it is definitely possible to nightwean before this.&nbsp;</p><p>Arguably nightweaning readiness has much more to do with where you are at than wehther or not your child is ready. Most children, if they were to choose, would not nightwean. The reality is, breastfeeding throughout the night is a lot on the body, mind and spirit! It is okay if you have hit your limit.&nbsp;</p><figure id="figure-4m9xdk6g2am0e029ip"><img id="4m9xdk6g2am0e029ip" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1503431760783-91f2569f6802?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyMHx8bW90aGVyJTIwYmFieXxlbnwwfHx8fDE3MjQ4NTgyNDF8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="mother baby" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1503431760783-91f2569f6802?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyMHx8bW90aGVyJTIwYmFieXxlbnwwfHx8fDE3MjQ4NTgyNDF8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><p><br></p><h2>Creating a Night Weaning Plan</h2><p>Creating a plan can make night weaning smoother for everyone. There are 2 approaches. You can do it all at once or cut back gradually. It really just depends on what sounds more manageable to you. The book Nursies When The Sun Shines can be a helpful tool in explaining the concept to your child.&nbsp;</p><p>It really all comes down to will and determination. Make up your mind that you are ready! Pick a time where you have some extra time to rest during the day because it may intially result in some sleepless nights. Your child will likely not be thrilled about this process.&nbsp;</p><p>Believe in yourself! You can do this! You may be really used to comforting your child with the boob but there are other options available. They often take more work at first but they will eventually be comforting to your child.</p><p>- have a bottle of water ready at the bedside</p><p>- if your child is teething consider giving a dose of ibuprofen before bed (ideally you wouldn't nightwean while teething but kids are always teething)</p><p>- enlist the support of a partner or friend (it can be very helpful to handoff at 4 am when you're at your wit's end)</p><p>- back rubs, walking back and forth, singing, rocking in a rocking chair are all helpful methods</p><p>- offering a favorite stuffed animal or blanket for comfort</p><p>- don't be afraid of just offering a snack (our 4 am wakeups were unbearable until my husband figured out if you offer our kid a nutrigrain bar he will eat it and immediately fall back asleep, saved an hour of misery each night and he's already starting to grow out of this)</p><p>- remember everything is temporary! It really depends on the kid how long they will protest over nightweaning. I nightweaned my daughter at 18 months and it was a few miserable nights but she caught on pretty quickly and starting sleeping much better. I nightweaned my son at 14 months and it was a much more challenging time and he took a couple weeks to accept there would be no more "bop" at night.&nbsp;</p><p>- if this is what you need, it will all be worth it in the end!</p><figure id="figure-pyasa12ihbm0e02dba"><img id="pyasa12ihbm0e02dba" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1545177251-f63921bd2b2a?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1fHxwYXJlbnQlMjBiYWJ5fGVufDB8fHx8MTcyNDg1ODI0Nnww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="parent baby" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1545177251-f63921bd2b2a?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1fHxwYXJlbnQlMjBiYWJ5fGVufDB8fHx8MTcyNDg1ODI0Nnww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><p>Stick to your plan and try to maintain a regular nighttime routine. This helps your baby understand that nighttime is for sleeping, not feeding.</p><p>It might take a few weeks for your baby to adjust to the new routine. Be patient and stay consistent with your approach.</p><h3>Handling Setbacks</h3><p>Setbacks are normal during the night weaning process. Your baby might wake up more often or seem fussier than usual. This is a normal part of the adjustment period.</p><p>Stay calm and continue to offer comfort without feeding. Over time, your baby will adapt to the new routine. It's also okay if you have a really bad night and need to feed. It's a process. Please be kind to yourself. It's also okay to change your mind and decide the time is not right. You can always try again in the future. Often people try and nightwean before 18 months and find it so challenging they stop and try again at 18 month and have success.&nbsp;</p><p>Additionally, night weaning can encourage a more structured daytime feeding schedule, ensuring your baby gets the necessary nutrients during the day.</p><h3>When to Seek Help</h3><p>If you find the night weaning process particularly challenging, don't hesitate to seek help. Your pediatrician can offer advice and support. You can also consider consulting a sleep specialist or a lactation consultant for additional guidance.</p><p>Remember, every baby is different, and what works for one family might not work for another. Trust your instincts and do what feels right for you and your baby.</p><h2>Conclusion</h2><p>Night weaning is a significant milestone in your baby's development. Approach it with patience, determination and consistency. It is not helpful to anyone to plow through your need to sleep and have your body to yourself at night. It can make a big difference in how you feel in your body to have boundaries around breastfeeding. Find the right time for you and trust that you can do this! It will be hard but, most often, worth it!</p>

Night Weaning: A Gentle Approach for You and Your Child

<h2>Understanding Seasonal Depression</h2><p>Seasonal depression, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), affects many people during certain times of the year. It usually occurs in the fall and winter months when daylight hours are shorter. People with SAD may feel lethargic, sad, and lose interest in activities they usually enjoy. SAD often happens earlier than you think. People associate the changes with mood with the changes in weather when in fact it is actually the changes in light. <br></p><p>One effective treatment for seasonal depression is phototherapy, also known as light therapy. This treatment involves exposure to bright light that mimics natural sunlight. It can help alleviate the symptoms of SAD and improve overall mood. I often recommend people start using their light around labor day weekend. <br></p><figure id="figure-ztpmpsg3vgm01jg36m"><img id="ztpmpsg3vgm01jg36m" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1500462918059-b1a0cb512f1d?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw4fHxsaWdodCUyMHRoZXJhcHl8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzI0MTA0NzM5fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="light therapy" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1500462918059-b1a0cb512f1d?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw4fHxsaWdodCUyMHRoZXJhcHl8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzI0MTA0NzM5fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><p><br></p><p>The light from the box helps regulate the body's sleep-wake cycle, also known as the circadian rhythm. This can improve sleep patterns and reduce feelings of fatigue and sadness.</p><h3>Benefits of Phototherapy</h3><p>Phototherapy offers several benefits for those suffering from seasonal depression:</p><ul><li><strong>Improves Mood:</strong> Regular exposure to bright light can boost mood and energy levels.</li><li><strong>Enhances Sleep:</strong> It helps regulate sleep patterns, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up.</li><li><strong>Increases Energy:</strong> Many people report feeling more energetic and less lethargic after phototherapy sessions.</li></ul><p>Here are some tips to help you get started:</p><ol><li><strong>Make sure you use a light with the brightness of 10,000 lux. This is very important otherwise your light may be ineffective.</strong><br data-mce-bogus="1"></li><li>Use the light box in the morning, ideally within an hour of waking up.</li><li>Sit about 16 to 24 inches away from the light box.</li><li>Keep your eyes open, but do not look directly at the light.</li><li>Start with 10-15 minutes per session. You may want to increase as the days get darker for up to 30 minutes per session. You can also add an evening session around sunset if the morning session is not sufficient.<br></li></ol><p>Consistency is key. Regular use of the light box can help you see improvements in your mood and energy levels.</p><p>Talk to your provider if you notice insomnia, decreased need for sleep, talking faster than usual, spending more money than usual or any other signs of mania as the light can induce mania.</p><p>If you have bipolar disorder, the light can be beneficial to you but please do this under the guidance of a psychaitrist. <br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><h2>Consulting a Professional</h2><p>Before starting phototherapy, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. They can help determine if phototherapy is right for you and guide you on how to use it safely. Phototherapy is generally safe, but it may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with certain eye conditions.</p><p>If you are struggling with seasonal depression, consider reaching out to our practice. We are here to help you navigate your mental health journey with care and compassion.</p>

Blog

Holistic Guide to C-Section: Preparing and Healing

Examining the Misogynistic Roots of the Natural Childbirt...

Introducing Our New Membership Plan: Comprehensive Care f...

Holistic Psychiatry in Illinois: Virtual Care for Mental ...

Night Weaning: A Gentle Approach for You and Your Child

The Benefits of Phototherapy for Seasonal Depression