How can massage therapy help individuals with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression triggered by reduced sunlight exposure, most commonly occurring in the winter months. Symptoms include low mood, fatigue, changes in sleep and appetite, and difficulty concentrating. The disorder is thought to be linked to disruptions in melatonin and serotonin production, which affect mood regulation and circadian rhythms.

Massage therapy can serve as a valuable complementary intervention for individuals with SAD by promoting relaxation, improving sleep quality, and enhancing overall mood. By increasing serotonin levels and reducing stress hormones such as cortisol, massage may help alleviate some of the physiological effects of seasonal depression. Additionally, incorporating warm therapies, such as heated stones or warm towels, can provide additional comfort during colder months when SAD symptoms are most pronounced. Massage therapists should also encourage clients to combine bodywork with other evidence-based treatments such as light therapy and physical activity for optimal benefits.

This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course, "Touching the Mind: Mental and Mood Disorders for Massage Therapists," presented by Ruth Werner, BA, BCTMB, Ret.