Do you have the winter blues?

Dark mornings, I just do not want to get to of bed. Wet miserable days, I loose motivation. Just want to hibernate. Taking D3 which does help and I make myself go to exercise class twice a week. One of the groups is Dancing for Wellbeing, which I find very energising. It is basically movement (some of them quite silly) to music. Can be done seated, so I can manage it even with my COPD. Cold air restricts my breathing so outdoor activities are not an option in winter.

Recently came across an article relating to exercise

"Dr Kathrin Rehfeld, lead author of the study, said: "Two different types of physical exercise (dancing and endurance training) both increase the area of the brain that declines with age. In comparison, it was only dancing that led to noticeable behavioural changes in terms of improved balance."

I definitely get a little down with the grey skies. But I love dressing up in warm clothes, hot tea and a nice fire at home (when I get around to it)

I just wanted to know if anyone has used a sunrise lamp or light therapy? The NHS doesn't cover them, but the lack of light is really getting me down. I wonder if it's worth the expense. Anyone tried it or have a model they like?

Hi Zoe

I have used one and it was great. My son has it now. The best kind , or rather the easiest to use are the sunrise ones, which come on an hour before you want to get up. I also found that taking Vit D3 helped me. I still take it every winter.

I also had to cut down on carbs and sugar as I realised I was eating a lot more of those in winter. Comfort eating I  suppose. I hate the cold weather, it makes my breathing so much worse and restricts what I can do.

I should have added that if you are magnesium deficient it will interfere with processing Vit D. I found out that my PPI's had caused magnesium deficiency. Best talk to your GP before adding anything to your regime.