A couple of months ago, a Beachcomber editorial outlining the symptoms and potential cures for seasonal affective disorder (SAD) reported the effects of darker days and colder temperatures on the human mind and body.

Scientists have studied the disorder and have found that as the days get darker in the fall and winter, those affected become depressed, tired and gain weight. Treatments can include light therapy and Vitamin D supplements, but a natural remedy is exercising to get endorphins pumping through the body. Bonus points if the sun comes out and exercise can be done in the sunlight.

While SAD likely began affecting islanders during soggy and dark November and December when attempts at getting outdoors were met with mud, puddles, ice or darkness, most of this new year thus far has been sunny and bright.

The more favorable weather served as a time for many to shake off SAD and enjoy the beautiful, natural landscape and views of Mount Rainier that have been obstructed by clouds. While temperatures remain low on the island, the sun has shone the past two weekends, and last weekend bucked the trend entirely. Saturday and Sunday were both sunny days that saw temperatures climb into the mid-40s, a welcome reprieve from the sub-freezing temperatures and ice that blanketed the island at the end of December and first days of the new year. The temperature could even be considered balmy, and islanders were seen out in the island’s forests and parks making up for time spent indoors.

Even as the Seahawks took to the playoffs Sunday, visits to Shinglemill Creek, Judd Creek and the beach of the former Glacier site at Dockton Forest revealed islanders, and their dogs, out enjoying the crystal clear, warm day. Seniors and young couples took to Shinglemill’s steep climbs and rocky trail; children chattered and screamed in amazement at Judd Creek, and women decked out in 12’s gear took their dogs to a lookout on the former Glacier mine site to see Rainier.

Living in this area allows for a greater appreciation of nice weather and sunlight, and the appreciation is easy to notice on days like Sunday. The forecast is calling for more traditional rainy weather this weekend, but it can be guaranteed that islanders will be out and about on the island’s trails when the rain stops or the sun comes out again.