6 features February 29, 2012 > Over the Edge THE WINTER BLUES A look into the Dangers of Tanning and Alternatives in Combating Winter Depression LAURA BEVACQUA FEATURES EDITOR re grey skies and snow get- ting you down? Do you experience symptoms of the winter blues? Are you ready for warmer weather? Research has indi- cated that a lack of sunlight con- tributes to what is known as SAD, seasonal affective disorder. It is no wonder that many Canadians are in- creasingly tired or experience symp- toms of depression during cold winter months. Natural-Cure-Alternatives.com estimates that during the fall and win- ter months the brain produces more melatonin than serotonin and the pro- duction of Vitamin D slumps with the lack of exposure to the sun. Serotonin reaches its lowest levels in Decem- ber and January. The Winter Equinox often marks the lowest period for SAD sufferers. It is estimated that 15% of Can- adians experience symptoms of the winter depression according to an Seasonal-Affective-Disorder article from the Reader’s Digest on how to Beat the Winter Blues. Many people seek tanning as an escape to combat the winter blues, among vari- ous other reasons. Although tanning may provide a short-term band aid in escaping winter depression, the act of tanning causes great damage and side effects such as skin cancer and chan- ges within the brain. According to Health Canada, skin plays a vital role in keeping you healthy. It is the largest organ in your body, and it protects you from things like dehydration, the sun, bacterial infections, and pollution. But there are limits to your skin’s ability to pro- vide protection. Different factors can cause damage that cannot be repaired. People who frequently use tanning beds experience changes in their brain activity during sessions that mimic patterns of drug addiction according to a research study in the journal Ad- diction Biology. Could regular tan- ning sessions be a sign of addictive behaviour? These practices may ex- plain why people continue to tan al- though they may be aware of the risks associated with tanning. “What this Background to the Spectac An Exploration into Brazilian Carnival LAURA BEVACQUA FEATURES EDITOR -olonized by the Portuguese, Brazil is a country known for many things and a rising powerhouse within the international political arena. With a population of over 192 million, Brazil is the lar- gest county in Latin America and the world’s 5th largest state geographic- ally and in population. Brazil is a growing economy that has improved extreme poverty levels, strengthened international partnerships and lead Brazil has always maintained grand Carnival (Carnaval in Por- tuguese) annual festivities. Samba, soccer and dramatic Brazilian soap operas are known as essential Brazil- ian ingredients, but how much do we really know about the Brazilian Car- nival spectacle? Rio de Janeiro has become the Carnival Capital of the World where it is estimated that approximately 500, 000 foreign visitors flock to the streets of Rio each year around this time. Carnival festivities take place all across the country, a month before the actual 4-day grand parade celebra- tion and competitions held in Febru- ary (the hottest month in the South- ern Hemisphere according to global reports). Rio’s elaborate Carnival is made possible by thousands of local people who prepare for the events months in advance. The costumes are extravagant, the performances are elaborate, and the bands vivacious. way to pray to the spirits of ancestors. Samba music is usually played out- doors by live bands before and during Carnival and it is common for many Statue of Jesus Christ in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Samba music dominates the Bra- zilian and Carnival cultures where it originated from the African slaves brought to Brazil during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Poor Afro-Brazil- ians engaged in the tribal music as a people to dance on the streets of Rio. The common, popular Samba songs are sung by virtually everyone. According to Rio-Carnival.net, the Portuguese first brought the concept of “celebration or carnival” to Rio around 1850. The practice of holding balls and masquerade parties was im- ported by the city’s bourgeoisie from Paris. However, in Brazil, the trad- itions soon became different. Over time, they acquired unique elements deriving from African and Amerin- dian cultures. Groups of people would parade through the streets playing music and dancing. It was usual that shows is that the brain is in fact re- sponding to UV light, and it responds in areas that are associated with re- ward,” said Dr. Bryon Adinoff, a pro- fessor of psychiatry at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Cen- ter and an author of the study. “These are areas, particularly the striatum, that we see activated when someone is administered a drug or a high-value food like sugar.” Dr. Adinoff said the research suggests that some people appear addicted to tanning, a find- ing bolstered by the fact that many longtime tanners have a difficult time stopping or even just cutting back on tanning sessions. If you are experiencing the win- ter blues (I have at points since moving to Prince George), here are some remedies other than tanning that may prove beneficial in battling some seasonal challenges. They will not change your state overnight, but hopefully with time, you will notice your mood rise to normal and bal- anced levels. Adjust your sleep patterns. Engage in social activity. Exercise. Proper nutrition and healthy diet. Up the vitamin D. Decrease the amount of carbs. Purify your indoor air. during Carnival aristocrats would dress up as commoners, men would cross-dress as women and the poor dress up as princes and princesses - social roles and class differences were expected to be forgotten once a year but only for the duration of the festi- val. By the end of the 18 century the festivities were enriched by competi- tions. People would not just dress up in costumes but also perform a pa- rade accompanied by an orchestra of strings, drums and other instruments. The parades were halted during World War II and started again in 1947. By then the main competition took place downtown on a street called, Avenida Rio Branco. People of all ages participate in Carnival festivities. Carnival has evolved since it first sprouted in Rio, becoming one of the largest global events in the world. The biggest pa- rade known as the Samba Parade moved from the streets downtown to the purpose-built Sambodromo and among other celebrities over the years, Beyonce and Alicia Keys have been spotted in Carnival parades. If you have the chance to youtube or google footage from Rio Carnival, I suggest you do so. It’s a fascinating grand spectacle! ay