June saw a persistent inversion layer hanging over Central Otago that blanketed the region in a thick cloud, and July is not looking much better with a cloudy and cold week forecast. 

What can locals do if the weather is depressing them?

The Central App spoke to Angela Connell (the owner of Alexandra yoga studio Flow Space) in search of some tips for surviving winter.

Limited sun exposure can lead to low mood as sunlight stimulates serotonin and melatonin, neurochemicals that promote happiness, relaxation and sleep.

Ange recommended several strategies for combating the lack of sunshine.

One is to take short walks, looking for things to appreciate in nature. Joining a walking group can help with motivation.  

If it is too cold to go outside and difficult to muster up energy to complete tasks, she recommends choosing some cheery company or joining a group activity like yoga to socialise with others. 

This can release the oxytocin hormone. It can also be helpful to keep a daily gratitude journal of little things in your life you enjoy. 

Ange said people should also remember “gentle self-care”. 

“What a treat winter is for allowing a kind of ‘hibernation’. You have permission to slow down, retreat, snuggle up and read that book you’ve been trying to find time for.” 

Another strategy - not for the fainthearted - is cold water submersions which can stimulate an improved metabolism, immune system and send a massive release of dopamine through the body, boosting your mood for the day. 

A winter dip: Swimmers prepare to plunge into freezing Otago lake

There seem to be two options to get through the winter months: embracing it and looking for the good, or knowing your limits and allowing yourself some time to hibernate. 

However, if you are worried about yourself or another person, check in with your GP because you could have a genuine physiological issue. 

Ten per cent of New Zealanders are affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder, or as it’s commonly known, the winter blues. It’s four times more likely to affect women and tends to start when people are in their 20s and 30s.