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It’s here. Back at it again to haunt us for months, sliding in right after Halloween. Coincidence? Maybe not… Winter, with its icy grip, is upon us once more, and it’s not just about building snowmen.

Sure, our Canadian winters are postcard-perfect, attracting crowds with picturesque landscapes. But there’s a flip side to this coin. 

Seasonal depression, more commonly known as ‘winter blues‘ or ‘winter blahs’, is real and affects many of us during these cold months of short days and long nights. You better get ready to face it. Luckily for you, what follows will help you outsmart winter and keep your spirits high.

What are “Winter Blues” 

Winter blues often show up when shorter days and less sunlight start to mess with our internal clocks. You might feel low on energy, have trouble focusing, and those freezing days and nights might kill your desire to go out. It’s almost like your body wants to hibernate.

The experience varies for everyone. Some might feel just a bit down after the holidays, known as ‘January blues‘, while for others, it can be more serious. We sometimes talk about Seasonal Affective Disorder.

When winter blues become SAD

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is like winter gloom on steroids. We’re talking real depression here. Daily tasks become harder, and it’s more than just wanting to stay in bed because it’s cold. It’s a deeper kind of down that sticks around and affects everything. If you feel this way, it’s important to talk to a professional. 

How to fight Winter Blues

Here is your game plan to beat winter.

Stay active

Regular exercise releases endorphins, boosting your mood. It doesn’t have to be intense – a brisk walk or yoga can do wonders.

staying active, winter, yoga, work out, exercise

Let the sunshine in 

Natural light boosts your mood and energy. Open your curtains and sit near windows to get as much light as possible.

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Get outside 

Sunlight helps regulate your body clock and vitamin D levels. A brief daily walk can improve your mood and energy.

Winter activities in Vancouver - Snowshoeing

Keep warm

Warmth provides comfort and can lift your spirits. Bundle up in your favorite sweater to feel cozy and enjoy a hot drink. ‘Tis the season for hot chocolate and good soups.

meme, good soup, adam driver

Eat your greens 

Nutritious foods balance your mood and energy. Focus on fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains for overall well-being. Get these vitamins in!

healthy meal, fruits, healthy snack, winter, warm, sweater

Try a new hobby

A new hobby can distract from the gloom and spark joy. Whether it’s crafting, reading, or playing an instrument, it’s all about enjoyment. Consider outdoor options like skiing the make the most of the beauty of winter.

Skiers on chairlift in Whistler

Stay connected with friends and family 

It might feel like a little effort during this season but social interaction is key to combating feelings of isolation. Regular catch-ups, even virtually, can make a big difference.

coffee, chat, friends, laugh

Stick to a schedule 

Consistent sleep patterns aid in mood regulation. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.

alarm clock, wake up, morning, good sleep, morning schedule

Speak to a professional

If symptoms persist, seeking professional advice is important. They can offer tailored advice and support for your situation.

conversation, speaking, professional, smiling, taking notes

Extra tip

Feel free to give your diet a little boost with some extras. A mindful mix of magnesium, vitamin C, and vitamin D with your meals can help lift your mood.

vitamin, medicine, supplements

In summary 

Remember: beating the Canadian winter blues is definitely within your reach. The key is patience and a bit of self-care. From staying active to exploring new hobbies, each step you take is progress towards brighter days. Keep warm, stay connected, and let the sunlight in.

And we’ll say it again, if things feel overwhelming, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. With these strategies and a gentle approach to yourself, you’ll find that you can not only survive but also enjoy the winter season in Canada.

About the author

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Jonas Raux

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Canadian Immigration & Integration Writer
Jonas is Moving2Canada's content marketer with over 7 years of experience in SEO and digital marketing. After graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in commerce in France, majoring in marketing, he settled in Canada in 2017. Since then, he has been navigating the Canadian immigration system and is now awaiting his citizenship.
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