Though the physiological impact of reduced exposure to sunlight cannot be denied, the psychological impact of the season may be all in your head. If you feel like the article about "Winter Depression" from the last issue didn't speak to you, fear not, you are not alone, and if it did you may wish to consider an alternative point of view on bleak old winter.

Some of us, myself included, have added buoyancy and energy when the cooler weather finally comes around and the lack of extended hours of sunlight, which brings an end to the associated perils of oppressive heat and scorching ultra-violent rays, is a welcome relief. Certainly there is no single, simple reason for this rejection of the mass supposition that winter is a down season, as eloquently expressed in the previous article, but certain common conditions in the minority to which I belong may explain our aberrant reaction to the season.

For many of us not native to Shanghai , south, or east China (or the Southern hemisphere for that matter), winter may conjure up memories of crisp, cold days, walking in a gentle snowfall, skating or skiing outdoors, then coming home to a cup of hot chocolate, while you thaw close to something (or someone) warm. Despite the absence of snow through the majority of our current surroundings, the lower temperatures and necessity to bundle up when going out, can be enough to spark the ember of warm memories and light a flame of joy as another winter liberates some of our fondest feelings.

Factor in the emotional wellspring of the holiday season, whether a traditional Western observance like Christmas or Hanukah, or the Lunar New Year/Spring Festival, and you have all the more reason for cheer at this time of year.

Relish winter as the time to be out and getting things done. The heat of the summers in China can sap energy, keep you indoors, where the temperature can be controlled, discouraging outdoor activities. On a personal note I entirely quit working this past summer for the months of July and August. The discomfort of commuting or travelling in the scorching summer heat was simply too much to bear. By contrast, I have been out almost every day in December. Wear a sweater or a warm coat and there's nothing to fear from winter weather, and let us not overlook the fact that cooler temperatures afford us the opportunity to don the best our wardrobe has to offer. How can you not feel more confident and better about yourself, looking fabulous in your best suit, dressy overcoat and stylish scarf?

The advantages available in the chill of winter are plentiful. Employ the natural stimulation of the cold air to make you more alert and effective at work, to get you going in the morning. Put yourself in a good frame of mind by associating the cold with some of the pleasant situations noted above, or some of your own recollection. Take care of the naturally occurring depressive elements by following the advice from the past article. Keep your spirits and productivity high through the all-to-brief winter.

Before you let yourself succumb to the superficial gloom of the season, consider the depth of winter's numerous advantages, the subtle warmth and brightness of the season, as opposed to the garish sun of summer. As the song says, "Tis the Season to be Jolly."

Merry Christmas

Alex Major