We cannot argue that we are uncomfortable during the seasons when we do not have many hours of daylight.  Some of us suffer more severe levels of depression while others are just not comfortable.  Does it feel, to you, that hibernation would be a dandy state of affairs?  Cuddling with the cat, a good book and a basket of snacks becomes mighty tempting.  That urge to snack on the rich treats of the holiday season can blow weight control all to pieces. All of which work together to make us feel crappy along with the low light.

What can we do to get through the winter darkness with a reasonably ‘happy’ attitude?  It’s all about light.  There are some light therapies that Doctors can administer.  I’ve heard of some people getting relief with sun lamps, but I do not have any data that would defend that practice.

The least expensive and most empowering thing we can do is get around and get ourselves outside.  Taking a walk during the day when we can take advantage of what light is available can make the difference for our mental state.  We already know that this sort of activity would be good for us when considering other health concerns.  Along with the walking, choosing snack of  fresh winter fruit — seasonal citrus help us avoid or endure the colds and flu that can go with the confinement of the winter weather can do wonders in changing the way we feel.

Getting outside all day on every day isn’t necessary.  Indoor activities that include other people and a little brain stimulation such as board games, card games or puzzles are inexpensive but therapeutic activity.  If you have a lot of solitude, these activities are valuable as ways to entertain yourself.

If you have access to the Internet, your solitude can be banished with conversation and information exchanges with people who join you on social media websites such as Facebook.  Some of these folks will be your childhood friends, some will be family and others will be new acquaintances that you find on the Internet.  Brighton Enterprises has a conversation connection at their Facebook page.  The Varadys have an online business which was their first motivation for setting up a Facebook page; they decided they wanted to have more contact with other people and change some of the focus of their webpage from nifty retail to recreational conversation and information sharing.

I like to have a few house plants around which are clearing the air in my house and inspiring me as I observe their new growth as soon as they respond to the longer days.

When the ‘home-made’ things that can be done to relieve distress from the low light season don’t provide relief or just for good measure, remember your physician should know about your discomfort.  There are remedies that professionals can prescribe that will help beat the blues.

Remember, this too will pass — in 30 days (a very short time in the big picture) we will become quite aware of the days getting just a little longer.   We’re going to dig in and not let SAD get us down!