Surviving Winter

Last week, I battled a case of the winter blues, which left me feeling about as depleted as the snowmen above.  Here in Sapporo, we're smack dab in the middle of winter, and the snow and cold isn't going anywhere soon.  So I tried to think of some winter survival strategies that I thought I'd share here.

*Drink Tea

There's something so calming about brewing and drinking a cup of tea.  My tea of choice for the winter is ginger.  Not only is it really healthy for you, but it's spicy taste is so perfect for a cold morning or evening.  

*Get Out And Do Something!

I know, I know.  When it's below freezing and treacherously icy outside, the last thing you want to do is get out of your pajamas and go do something.  But winter is not the time to become a hermit, you'll go crazy.  Obviously there skiing and snowboarding around here, but maybe you're not the sporty type or don't have access to the slopes.  Then go to the movies (not on your computer!), sing karaoke with a group of friends, go to the local art museum.  Or bring people to you - plan a dinner party or a potluck. 

*Invest In Good Winter Gear

Maybe it's just me, but I think that when you look good, you feel good.  And you shouldn't have to feel frumpy in the winter.  I bought some new Wellies this year that I love wearing each day.  Pair that with my giant scarf and trapper hat, and I'm good to go.  Let your outerwear express who you are.  

*Exercise


This one is a difficult one for me, as I've never really stuck with an exercise regimen.  In New Jersey I used to jog, but it's just too cold for me to do that here.  So I've started going to dance classes with a friend and am doing some strength training at home.  As much as I hate to admit it, exercise really does lift your mood, and I'll be ready for tank tops and swimsuits come summer time!

*Read a Good Book

If you have to stay in, why not ditch the computer and cozy up in bed with a good book (wow, that really sounded like a promo for Reading Rainbow, anybody remember that show?)  I'll admit, I'm the first to grab the laptop and spend hours surfing the web when I'm bored.  And then this little (huge) book called 1Q84 came into my life.  During winter vacation, it was habit for me to lay in bed, read 1Q84, and drink hot chocolate.  It doesn't have to be something as lofty as Murakami.  How about a reread of The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo?

So let's try to enjoy the winter season, shall we?  Before we know it,  summer will be here and we'll be complaining about the heat!