Hi,
We are planning an article on the "winter blues" for the Nov. / Dec. issue of SWIMMER. I've got some ideas for a way to take a fresh look at the subject, but I'd love to hear from our member swimmers who may have issues with the low light and cold temperatures of winter.
Does it affect your training? Have you found a way to beat it? (Florida and So.Cal folks, I realize this is less than applicable to you, but friends in Nebraska and New York and Alaska, or any other state with seasons, please weigh in!)
Thanks for your time and insights. Please feel free to message me privately.
Sincerely,
Laura
Parents
Former Member
I'm of Swedish heritage and find that in the winter I can get a lethargic and a little despondent. (People of nordic blood have an increased occurrence of SAD). I also live in Connecticut which has those nice New England winters.
I actually find that exercising makes me feel better (not surprising, as exercise is usually recommended as a natural cure for depression and has been proven to increase hippocampal neurogensis which has been correlated to a having better mood). For many however, this creates an obvious problem. If you're suffering depression you won't necessarily have the motivation to start swimming.
I guess if I am in shape going into the season, my motivation is less affected. Having people to swim with helps motivate me and the social interaction is always good. In general, sticking with swimming ultimately makes my mood better than winters when I do not swim.
On another note, taking Vitamin D may not be a bad idea. A huge percentage of people have Vitamin D deficiencies and don't even know it.
Sounds like an interesting article. I would love to read it when you're done.
I'm of Swedish heritage and find that in the winter I can get a lethargic and a little despondent. (People of nordic blood have an increased occurrence of SAD). I also live in Connecticut which has those nice New England winters.
I actually find that exercising makes me feel better (not surprising, as exercise is usually recommended as a natural cure for depression and has been proven to increase hippocampal neurogensis which has been correlated to a having better mood). For many however, this creates an obvious problem. If you're suffering depression you won't necessarily have the motivation to start swimming.
I guess if I am in shape going into the season, my motivation is less affected. Having people to swim with helps motivate me and the social interaction is always good. In general, sticking with swimming ultimately makes my mood better than winters when I do not swim.
On another note, taking Vitamin D may not be a bad idea. A huge percentage of people have Vitamin D deficiencies and don't even know it.
Sounds like an interesting article. I would love to read it when you're done.
