Don’t let the winter blues get to you this year! Take in a few of our tips on how to survive these long, cold and dark Alaskan winters without sacrificing your health, happiness, and warmth!
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). A lot of Alaskans suffer from SAD during the winter months since we receive only about five hours of sunlight during the day. One way to remedy this disorder is by investing in a lamp that replicates sunshine - either a sun lamp or a lightbox. They provide stimulation of sunlight exposure and can really help combat SAD.
Another reason that SAD gets to many, is because of the lack of exercise that usually comes around during the winter. It is hard to stay motivated to go to the gym or go for a walk when there are freezing temperatures outside and the darkness that takes over when you come home from work. However, if there is a lack of stimulation on the body, the less serotonin our bodies will produce. Without exercise, our bodies will retain low energy and ultimately, make us feel down and worse during this time of the year. While it may be hard to want to go outside for your usual walk, make it a goal to try your best to make it out there and get your body moving. If that is not for you, consider joining a nearby gym or even invest in some at-home workout equipment! There are thousands of great at-home workouts that you can find on YouTube for free that can do just the trick to get a little sweat going and your body moving!
Winter Clothing. As an Alaskan, our winter wardrobe is very important. Investing in a good coat or waterproof and warm snow boots just may be our saving grace come winter. We live in a state where investing in good winter gear is a great investment and something we will get much use out of. If your current winter wardrobe is old or not doing the trick anymore, consider investing in new clothing. It will save you from cold and miserable walks to your car or keeping you from having fun during outdoor activities. Long underwear, comfy sweaters, warm socks, hats and gloves are easy ways to layer up and staying warm!
Winter Hobby. It’s important to have something to look forward to each week during wintertime in Alaska. Between the cold and the darkness, getting out of the house every so often is important for ones sanity. Find something you love to do each week - whether it be winter sports like skiing, ice skating, meeting up with friends for dinner or even inviting them over to bake - whatever it may be, having something to look forward to each week can help keep spirits high and motivation up.