Embrace the fog, savour the dawn, light up your home: readers’ top 10 tips for combating winter gloom
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Guardian readers share their tried and tested ways to brighten up the darkest, dampest days. It can be hard to retain a sunny disposition when it’s grey and dismal outside. But even when the weather is bleak, there are things you can do to help make your day feel a little brighter. With this in mind, we asked readers to share their tips for combating the gloom and boosting their mood now the nights have drawn in.
![[A woman doing stretching exercises wearing colourful wool socks.]](https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/63c58a79d6442d1e8bede0f7e086b72920e2cc2b/0_323_6240_3744/master/6240.jpg?width=445&dpr=1&s=none&crop=none)
Go to Kew Gardens or any local botanical garden and wander its greenhouses. They’re toasty warm, bright and colourful, and the perfect place for a walk, read or chat with friends when it’s miserable out. Isabelle, ecologist, London. I’d recommend rising at dawn and heading for the nearest beach, seaside, hill, forest or local park – even if it’s misty or inclement. Dress for the day and keep things simple: take a stroll and immerse yourself in the quiet. Even on a dull day, there’s light and hope as the day begins and everything wakes up. Plus, you can enjoy that smug feeling of getting a jump on the day. Claire Graham, lifestyle shop owner, West Cork.
![[Three balls of wool and knitting needles]](https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/e71ac40b4ff163636dcbd1787293c70b5b705957/0_1105_5622_3373/master/5622.jpg?width=445&dpr=1&s=none&crop=none)
Spend five minutes gently stretching, in bed or near a window, to connect with whatever light the day offers. Even if the sun is hidden, the ritual of facing the day with intention can help shift your mindset. Afterwards, nourish yourself with a breakfast that feels wholesome and comforting. Choose ingredients that provide sustained energy while honouring what your body craves, striking a balance between nutrition and enjoyment. Gloomy days are also a wonderful time to nurture relationships. Consider reaching out to a friend for a cup of coffee or a shared meal. Human connection can infuse your day with warmth and joy. Lily S Giraud, Nordic walking and yoga instructor, Oxford.
![[Twinkly fairy lights]](https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/0d4dae17f6b14434354775cb283706051bbe6d42/0_0_4841_2905/master/4841.jpg?width=445&dpr=1&s=none&crop=none)
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