How to Embrace Winter as a Summer-Loving Person
This is my fifth winter in Canada, which is mind-blowing to me. Where has the time gone?!
As much as my heart will always be in the Mediterranean Sea, it is accepting and enjoying this season in the Rocky Mountains despite the short days and the frigid temps. I try to focus on small tasks and activities that I can only pursue in the winter, which has allowed me to get through these months more easily (and cheerfully!). Here’s my top 10:
Assemble a vehicle emergency kit.
First and foremost, put together and stash an emergency kit in your car. This will give you peace of mind, especially if you’re not super familiar with driving in snowy or icy conditions. For a list of items we recommend you include, see here.
Dress for success.
As the saying goes: There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing. Get yourself and your child proper base, mid and outer layers, as well as good accessories in order to stay dry, warm and content while frolicking in the cold. Read more about layering here.
Get outside whenever you can.
Approach winter with the curiosity and playfulness of child.
Go for a walk. Yes, I get it - Layering everyone up to get outside is tough. But trust me: There is nothing more magical than a snowy walk. It’ll be worth it!
Step it up a notch and go for a hike. Put on that winter gear, strap on those ice traction devices and follow a trail in search of frozen waterfalls, snow-covered peaks and more.
Try sledding. It’s exhilarating for everyone!
Play in the snow. Build snow people, make snow angels, start a snowball fight, catch snowflakes with your eyelashes or go on a scavenger hunt in search of wildlife footprints.
Learn how to ice skate at your neighbourhood rink. I can attest firsthand that it’s tricky, but you get better every time you try.
Adopt a winter sport.
This is one my faves because it keeps you busy and determined on your days off. Winter offers so many options, such as cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, snowboarding and ice skating. Pick a sport to learn from scratch or to develop your skills at. It’s never too late! In my case, I’m learning to snowboard this year… Right next to my 2.5-year-old! It’s a fun challenge that keeps me looking forward to our family visits to Mount Norquay.
Eat and drink seasonally.
Now is the time for cozy, heart-warming soups, stews and cups on cups on cups of hot chocolate - No guilt attached! All these taste way better when consumed out of a thermos outside… Just sayin’. You’ll have time to drink, grill and eat fresh come summer.
Spend time with people who have positive winter mindsets.
I find it very important to be surrounded by active people in the wintertime, as they can be the motivation you need on your low energy days.
Write a list of the positive qualities of winter.
Fleece sweaters that feel so cozy.
The alpenglow on mountaintops at a time of day when you’re actually awake to appreciate its beauty.
Bike rides in the snow.
Afternoon exercise plans, such a couple cross-country ski laps before bed.
Time spent indoors without the guilt of wasting a sunny day.
The coziness of a blanket and wool socks on at all times.
The sound of footsteps on the crisp, frosty ground.
The rest you get from going to bed early since it’s been dark out so early.
Lazy weekends in pyjamas.
The opportunity to not shave my legs. Se tenía que decir y se dijo, jajaja.
Plan a winter getaway.
When it’s time- and financially-feasible, attempt to go somewhere warm in the middle of winter. There’s lots of motivation to get away in December because of Christmas, but then the end of winter feels like it drags on. If possible, try to plan an escape for February. If not possible, remind yourself: “After winter solstice (December 21st), every day is getting a little longer!”.
Stay connected with friends and family.
We naturally see less people in winter, but staying connected is one of the pillars of mental health. So try to intentionally make plans to meet up, even in the freezing cold. Perhaps you could schedule weekly cross-country skis, walks or in-studio workout/yoga classes with your buddies. Or you can stay home and video chat your family abroad. If you’re feeling low and like you can’t handle social interaction right now, try sending a text, email, or a card. Just do something small to reach out and it will likely help!
Make something.
As a working mom, I honestly feel like I’m busy ALL THE TIME. But in between managing the chaos and tackling the to-do lists, I somehow still feel useless. Something as simple as cooking a special meal or making a craft helps, since there is so much satisfaction in completing something.
Granted, there still are days where I ask myself why we’ve chosen Canmore as our home, but spending time outdoors (in any season of the year!) makes me remember why. There is something magical in the mountains that keeps me here, even in the toughest, coldest days.
I hope this helps shift your mindset to continue to enjoy the tail end of winter.