They can even run on a treadmill. Although popular, Rosenthal is not in favor of using the smaller light boxes. They are not as effective or well researched as the larger light boxes, which typically cost several hundred dollars. Another light therapy device is a dawn simulator that attaches to a bedside lamp and gradually simulates the rising of the summer sun. And studies show that light therapy in the morning seems to be more effective than light later in the day or night.
Light therapy can mean the difference between night and day to some.
But others may not respond as fully to artificial light therapy. Weather permitting, people can go for a walk because even a cloudy day provides sunlight. In fact, studies indicate that a one-hour walk is as effective as two and a half hours of light therapy. These medications can be taken in conjunction with light therapy. But Rosenthal warns that patients should not take the popular herbal anti-depressant St. John's Wort while engaging in light therapy because the herb makes the eyes more sensitive to light.