In the summer, I live in the coldest, most expensive, prettiest place in California.  There are other places that are colder (Humboldt), places that are more expensive (Santa Barbara), and places that are arguably prettier (the Big Sur coastline, Napa Valley), but I can't think of a single place that manages to embrace all 3 like Monterey in July.  It is a place where, when one looks out to see the ocean, it is difficult to discern the gray color of the water from the low fog bank.  It is a place where the high for the day might not break 60 degrees.  And it is a place where I get depressed.

Most people get SAD during the cold, dreary days in the winter when the days are short and the sun doesn't shine.  For me, SAD usually sets in after the fifth day of fog, with temperatures hovering around 58 degrees.  I get bitter, sad; my usually happy self becomes weighed down like the fog hovering outside.  The solution to this, interestingly enough, is to get outside.  I have found if I sit around inside, or do my workouts at the gym, the depression deepens.  Being inside on these days is the worst thing I can do for myself.  It is necessary for me to go for a run or bike ride to break out of the funk that threatens to settle in.

Generally, the first 20 minutes, I am angry, irritated that I had to wear 3 layers of clothes just to stay warm.  Then, gradually, as my legs warm up and I start to sweat, my thoughts change.  I look around and notice the ocean and the trees.  I think about how I can ride for hours without hitting a stoplight, and there are plenty of hills.  Endorphins are a powerful thing.  If I am lucky, the thoughts fall away completely, and my mind is silent.  Until a tourist stops and asks me for directions.

Seriously, though, I have never quite understood "gym rats;" people who insist on doing their cardio workouts staring at a wall, not going anywhere.  I find the fresh air therapeutic, the ever changing scenery peaceful.  Exercise is for the mind as well as the body, something which is easy for us to forget in the hustle and bustle of everyday life.