I recently started getting up at 7:00am after keeping vampires hours all Winter and i'm looking for activities to do in the morning. I'm on disability benefits. I'm a 50 year old woman with no family or friends but one sweet dog. I can't exercise yet because i am too weak from my Winter depression and am still adjusting to getting up early, which is the priority. I can't volunteer because i can't make a long enough commitment. I don't like to watch TV while it's light out. I can't take a casual job because of restrictions on my benefits. There's church on Sunday morning but there's six other mornings in the week.

I tried the only support organization in the city that's open in the morning today but it's for women who are homeless or having tough times financially and i'm comfortable in that regard so i don't feel i fit in. I don't qualify for seniors' centers yet.

I just worry that if i don't find things to do in the morning i will revert back to vampires hours. Any ideas?

[BrazenApogee]

Create something. Paint, draw, write, anything. Let it be the time that anything could happen. Without judgements of good or bad. Let it flow.

[manicdiamond]

Are there any library programs like book clubs? This is a way to be social with little commitment.

I was thinking of a book club too. There is a website called meetups and I believe they have religious groups you can join. If you have any hobbies, there are forums to get more involved or local groups sometimes. Take a class at a local community college or adult school if you have any in your area. Increasing social health is important in long lasting health, so I applaud your desires and efforts to get out there.

Welcome back to the world. Winter depression is horrible. I hope you find something soon and stay out of that dark place.

[gina_re]

I know you mentioned that you cannot exercise, but with a dog to take of, maybe you can work with that. I'm not saying take long walks down the street and around the corner. But maybe to the end of the driveway and back (assuming you have one), or to the next house and back. Start small, baby steps, because the Vitamin D from the sun can help. Trust me, I was pretty much vitamin D deficient and between being out a few minutes more and taking suplements, I think has helped my mood. And maybe the fresh air will give you some type of inspiration for other possible activities. Not sure if that makes any sense or if that helps, but I hope you are able to find what you're looking for.

[Woolly Bugger]

Do you have a place where you can do a little light gardening?

[lilypup]

I would do that gradual build up of walking thing.

When I got back on my feet, I took a beginning quilting class. It was only six classes, so I was able to go. Now I am able to work on quilts. It gives me something to do.

I also do devotionals in the morning and meditate.

[gina_re]

Originally Posted by lilypup

I would do that gradual build up of walking thing.

When I got back on my feet, I took a beginning quilting class. It was only six classes, so I was able to go. Now I am able to work on quilts. It gives me something to do.

I also do devotionals in the morning and meditate.

I love the quitting idea! If I had more time, I would try and pick up a similar hobby. Good luck and have fun!