Down. Depressed. Feeling Blue. This can happen to any of us, but it seems to be most prevalent during the winter months, especially here, where we can go without seeing sunshine for days, if not weeks on end. There are some studies that indicate that some people actually have a condition, known as Seasonal Affective Disorder, so eloquently referred to as SAD, which is truly a form of depression and will usually strike, naturally enough, during the winter months. It was the Yanks who first truly developed this theory, and after spending many years and lots of money, discovered that it affected people in the northern states, like New Hampshire a lot more than people that lived in perennially sunny areas like Florida. Good to know. Doctors have even prescribed some treatments for SAD, which include light therapy, using sunlight or bright lights (makes one feel like a plant), some form of behavioural therapy, even medication against depression, including some of the milder, non-prescription supplements like melatonin.

Don't pop those pills!

You don't have to raid the medicine cabinet in order to feel better. And chances are, staring at yourself in the mirror and try to talk yourself out of it is not going to work either. What you need to do is take a break, and head for sunnier skies and a more invigorating environment. If it's winter, why not go skiing? If you don't know how, isn't it time to learn? There are plenty of ski resorts that offer inexpensive lessons, and you'll find yourself not only doing something you will truly enjoy, but you'll get to breathe that crisp, fresh mountain air for a while. The Alps are always a favourite destination, as they are located not too far away, and offer a wide variety of locations, spread out amongst France, Italy, Germany, Austria and Switzerland. And Switzerland seems to offer some of the best options, as they speak many different languages, so that one can feel at home, and they have unbelievably wonderful mountains and villages where one can feel quite comfortable. Situated at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn, the village of Zermatt provides a setting that is almost too pretty even for postcard. You really should come and stay for a while, and with chalets Zermatt, you can do it in style. Bring the whole family, or even organize a party of friends to spend your time there with. The chalets are quite beautiful, almost all featuring traditional arching wooden beams, so that one not only has a sense of space, but rightfully feels in the middle of a beautiful alpine setting. A great view of the Matterhorn from the windows doesn't hurt. Want an additional touch of luxury? How about a private spa or even a private swimming pool!

Your time has come

There’s no reason to keep dragging yourself around town, feeling like life on earth as we know it is quickly coming to an end. Take that break, hit the mountains, and be sure to book yourself a wonderful adventure at chalets Zermatt. You'll come back having discovered one more reason to love winter.