We’re now nearly a month into the winter season, which started officially on December 21. But unfortunately, we’ve got a long way to go before this cold, inhospitable season comes to an end on March 20.
Yes, it will be some time before the days get noticeably longer and the temperature starts spiking above the freezing mark on a regular basis. For those of us that aren’t fond of winter, it’s going to be a slog, but provided you approach this miserably frigid the right way, it’s survivable — even enjoyable.
Without further ado, here are four tips for surviving the rest of this bone-chilling season.
Get outside
For people that dislike the winter, this one seems counterintuitive, but is massively important. Although the cold can be a deterrent, your body needs vitamin D and there’s no better way to get that crucial vitamin than by getting out into the sunlight.
A great way to make going outside a more enjoyable experience in the winter is by finding a winter-only activity you enjoy, and doing it often. Try things like skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice fishing, outdoor hockey — even just walks through the park. Just remember to bundle up in your warmest winter gear to make the experience as enjoyable as possible.
Exercise
This point is pretty tightly linked to the one above. If you’re cooped up inside all winter, glued to your couch, binge watching Netflix for months on end, you’re going to feel miserable. The only way to combat this is by exercising.
In the winter, it can be difficult to get the exercise we need. It’s not nearly as easy to go for a jog, and on the truly cold days, the prospect of a walk or drive to the gym can be a daunting task. One way or another, however, all winter-haters need to find a way to get their blood pumping — even if it’s just by doing jumping jacks in front of the TV.
Eat Well
When it’s freezing cold outside, grocery runs can be pretty unpleasant. And as the fridge empties, and your appetite grows, it can be tempting to jump on favorite food delivery app and order any number of greasy, fattening foods.
Just as it does in the warmer months, however, your body needs real, nutritious food to function properly. So, whether you’re braving the cold to load up on healthy groceries, or ordering something nutritious instead of pizza or poutine, make sure you’re filling your body with good food. Vitamins and supplements are also a great way to keep your body running smoothly in the winter.
Socialize
When it’s -30 outside, and it gets dark at 4:45 pm, it can be hard to peel yourself off the couch and go meet up with your friends. In fact, it’s far easier to cancel all your plans and just stay inside where it’s warm.
Even if you’re exercising and eating well in the comfort of your home, however, it’s important to make sure you’re interacting with other people. That doesn’t necessarily mean you have to leave home, either. There’s no reason you can’t invite your friends to your place for drinks, for a board game night, even just to watch a movie together. Just make sure you’re getting some face-time in with other humans, as it’s the best way to fend off the feelings of isolation, withdrawal and depression that tend to creep in during the cold, dark winter months.
Go to Bed Earlier
Why fight the hibernation instinct? As long as you’re still getting your exercise and socialization in during the day, there’s no reason you can’t hit the sack early in the winter months. These cold dark days can be a great opportunity to rest your body and mind, and brace for another summer of long days and late nights. While it’s still a ways off, rest assured, it’s coming.
