Scandinavia is known to have some harsh winters, from the cold temperatures to the extended lack of sunlight. I mean, several sections of Scandinavia that are in the Arctic Circle. However, people have lived here for centuries and many love and look forward to the winters. For Scandinavians, winters and the extreme weather does not phase them as much as it would for those not from colder regions (like me). Instead it brings the feeling of coziness, winter activities like skiing and ice skating, and the even more relaxed pace of life.
However, for myself I have always loved the summer from the warmth on my skin, going in any body of water, and the long sun-filled days. One of the winter aspects I was most nervous about was the lack of sunlight, although I honestly haven’t noticed it as much as I thought I would. It seems natural, even if the sun set at 2:30PM in December, it was just more of an excuse for a little hibernation.
While I’m not in through the thick of it yet, here are some 5 tips to not just survive, but thrive in Scandinavian winters. This isn’t just for Scandinavian winters, but anywhere winters are considered a bit harsh.
- Mindset
- Activities
- Outdoor Time
- Light
- Connection
1. Mindset
Mindset is HUGE going into the winter. I had a vague idea of what I was getting into from some research and googling Swedish winters. Although, when I got here I was warned by so many about what is to come. Having a realistic and prepared mindset and routine going into the winter will set you up for success.
Reframing my mindset was a big factor in my ability to thrive in the winter. It’s January already and I gotta say it’s not bad and I’m enjoying the season.
2. Activities
Having lots of indoor and outdoor activities to do will help with the shorter days. It’s easy to want to stay inside all day and be in front of a screen.
Active activities, that don’t involve screen time like a sport, going to the gym, board games, cooking, knitting, journaling, etc will help your mind and body stay active during the winter months.
3. Outdoors
There is a saying in Scandinavia that there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing. Therefore, even when it seems brutal outside, layer up in appropriate clothing and get active outdoors.
Fresh air does wonders for the mind and body. I try to get outdoors for at least 20 mins a day, whether that’s on a simple walk, going to get groceries, or sitting on my balcony.
Base layer: fits tightly to the body made from wool, synthetic fibers, or a blend of both to move sweat away
Mid layer: Can be made from natural or synthetic fibers, this layer traps the body heat in
Outer layer: Should be waterproof, windproof, and breathable. Needs to be durable so nylon or polyamide materials are best
Also wear some wool socks, waterproof mittens, and a fleece-lined hat and boots for optimal warmth.
4. Light
As mentioned before, the outdoors is essential in the winter to not only move your body, but to get some light in your life. Open your curtains to let the light in the morning, invest in a SAD lamp, change your light bulbs to warmer tones, and light some candles.
Since the days are much shorter in the winters, getting light and vitamin D will be essential. Vitamin D supplements can also be very helpful to get your fill.
5. Connection
Connection is essential in the winter months especially. Facetime a friend, meet someone for coffee or just go to a coffee shop, talk to someone at the grocery store, or write letters.
Having some kind of connection with friends and family will be beneficial to maintain your well-being and thrive in Scandinavian winters.
