It closes the Chinese New Year celebration. An ancient Chinese myth depicts celestial spirits flying about in the light of the first full moon of the lunar calendar. Celebrants hang colorful lanterns at temples. In addition to the psychological need for light throughout the winter, modern science has taught us that there is a physical need as well. SAD victims usually feel the onset of symptoms in the fall and feel relief setting in by the spring.
Doctors prescribe exposure to a light box in the morning.
Generally the light boxes use a bright light with a frequency spectrum closely simulating the frequencies of natural sunlight. The required length of exposure depends on the severity of the winter depression. While no one is certain why this helps, scientists hypothesize that it has to do with shifting the body's internal clock. And there are many testimonials to the success of light therapy. Sunlight is the source of all biological energy on Earth.