Hygge

Apparently, the oh-so-perfect also have a strategy for coping with  the winter blues. It is a concept called 'hygge' (pronounced hooga) which means warmth, coziness, intimacy. Basically, living in tune with the season and allowing life to slow during the long winters. There is also a social aspect to it and the best way to hygge is to surround yourself with dear ones for long intimate chats. In principle, it sounds like a great way to fight the winter doldrums, better than sun-lamps and wine.

But, for me, the efficacy of hygge would depend on two things--place and company. It is one thing to hygge if you are in a cozy house with a fire place and a large window looking out on to a nice garden. If you are in a cheerless terraced apartment with a window that looks out onto even less cheery apartments, more difficult. Also, if you lack company, cozy solitude can turn into aching loneliness surprisingly quickly. 

What is really working for me are the good old-fashioned remedies--physical activity and good music. I have started doing yoga after returning from uni instead of in the mornings to keep myself active during the long dark evenings. And, it seems to be working.