Quote:
Originally Posted by DKaz
The darkness doesn't bother me, it's the constant extreme cold. I've never experienced SADS until this first adult winter in Edmonton, had to call in sick a few days because of it. I need to find things to do this winter and purchase proper attire that will allow me to do outdoor activities.
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Winters in this town are depressing as hell, especially if you're from someplace like southern BC. I used to find Okanagan winters drab & grey, now when we go back over Christmas it's such a treat to be in such a mild climate. For me it's not so much the dark or the snow, but the cold. 14 years and it still bothers me, I hate it.
First & foremost plan at least a week in a nice climate. I usually like to go right around family day, as it gives you something to look forward to after New Years and if you get back in around the 3rd week of Feb at least you know spring is 5 or 6 weeks away, and you start seeing incremental improvement like slightly longer days. Costa Rica and Maui in Feb over the past number years have been godsends. I don't know how anyone can not get out of here at least once over the winter. Luckily there are lots of sun destinations out EIA.
Dress for it.. I've got good boots, several very warm jackets, multiple gloves and toques, I find layering is key. If I can keep myself warm I find I'm in a lot better state. In this town it doesn't matter what you look like, it's how warm you can stay, so get good stuff, not fashionable stuff.
If you don't have one get a command starter for your car if it sits outside. I know it's bad for the environment... blah blah. If I have to be here in the frozen wasteland I want my car warm when I get in.
Cross country ski or snow shoe. We live a few minutes from both Gold Bar park and Riverside golf course. It's quite amazing how a quick ski, even when it's super cold out can improve your mood. I love Riverside at night because it's very quiet, not too many people out and it feels like being out in the woods. Getting exercise in the winter is important for your mental well being. When the weather does pop up over the winter take advantage of it and get outside.
Create a den or cave. We renovated the basement into a super cool theatre/ games/ HIFI room, put an electric fireplace in and made it really warm & comfortable. We don't set foot in it from April to October but when winter hits, it's really nice to have a warm lair to retreat into.
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