A Christmas break

As Christmas is almost upon us, I have decided to take a short break from blogging so that I can recharge my mental and physical batteries.

Getting older (I am now seventy-five years old) tends to mean that one has to inevitably slow down a bit ... but hopefully not too much! The colder, darker, and shorter days can easily bring on a dose of SADness (Seasonally Affective Disorder) and its inherent susceptibility to visits from the 'Black Dog', and I have found that the best way to cope is:

• To try to get exposure to as much gentle sunlight as possible (and/or to take vitamin D tablets).
• To eat well ... but not to overindulge.
• To rest when I feel tired (i.e. taking a short doze in the afternoon!).
• To tackle projects that are not too physically and/or mentally demanding ... although doing the odd crossword or quiz (or fighting a wargame!) in order to exercise the 'little grey cells' is no bad thing!
• To try to have as much fun as I can and to laugh as often as possible ... even if the cause of the laughter is due to my own stupidity!

None of the above are positive defences against SADness ... but they sure help to keep it at bay!

I intend to return to regular blogging in the New Year ... or possibly even before then if the mood takes me. In the meantime, may I wish my blog readers Merry Christmas and hope that they and their families all enjoy the festivities and stay fit and healthy so that they can look forward to having a great 2026.