The Impact of Environment on Recovery: A Look Inside The Balance Clinic’s Setting

An environment is not just where you are, but a collection of factors that contribute to a sense of place. This can include the physical space, weather, energy, and sense of community. There is a significant, and well-studied link between weather and mood. An individual extremely sensitive to changes in weather may develop SAD – seasonal affective disorder.

This is a type of depression that peaks during colder, darker months and is believed to be related to light exposure. Not everyone that is affected by the weather will develop SAD, but many people will experience shifts in their mood and energy levels based on the atmosphere around them. As the sunshine is one of our main forms of obtaining Vitamin D, many people in cities have deficiencies. While taking a supplement to make up for the lack of sun can be necessary, nothing compares to the real thing. Our CEO and Founder notes “the sun is the cheapest form of anti-burnout therapy you will find.”

Beyond the atmosphere around us, an environment is also who we surround ourselves with and our sense of community. Most, if not all of us, will have experienced a bad environment in our lifetime due to the people around us. We are energetic beings, when a space has gone sour – we feel it. It’s important to take note of these environment shifts and be aware of their affect on you. In more extreme scenarios, when an individual experiences a trauma – that place can forever be linked psychologically to what they felt in that moment. The process of re-establishing safety within the mind and body is a delicate one – but being lead slowly by professionals who understand this relationship and guide you out of the darkness can transform your life in profound ways. A supportive and safe environment is necessary in order to overcome the past.