Let’s start 2021 with a smile!
We love our beautiful Anchorage, Eagle River and Mat-Su areas. Alaska is our home, and we are no stranger to our Alaskan winters and the affect that they can have on us. After experiencing a bit of a roller-coaster year, thanks 2020, how can we start off this year with hope, good health and positivity? How can we be resolved to always find our smile?
Our Alaskan community fully understands the affect that SAD or Seasonal Affective Disorder can have on us. What are some ways that we can combat this and keep ourselves pushing forward with positivity?
One important thing that we can do to ourselves is push ourselves to go outside and be active. Our Alaskan outdoors provides an ample playground to keep us happy and healthy. Here are a few things to do to keep smiling this year.
Animals make us smile
Alaska is full of amazing wildlife. Moose, one of our most iconic Alaskan animals, tend to visit the cities once the snow is deep. You can also see them in Palmer Hay Flats and Potter Marsh. Ravens, Chickadees, redpolls fill our skies and trees. Play with puppies! Alaska is well-known for dog mushing, the official state sport. You can watch these beautiful animals during the classic distance dogsledding races the next couple months.
Outdoor activities that make us smile
Alaska is full of opportunities for outdoor exercise and enjoyment. Anchorage and Fairbanks host a range of concerts and entertainment. Winter doesn’t stop the festivals and fun!
We have an abundance of cross-country ski and downhill ski areas. These trails afford the opportunity for snow-bikers, joggers and skiers to keep active and enjoy the Alaskan outdoor beauty. There are ample opportunities to take all day trips out on snow machines, skies, bikes or dog sleds. Anchorage area alone has over 300 miles of packed or groomed trails.
Do you ever get tired of seeing the northern lights? Most likely not! The Glen Alps parking lot in Anchorage provides a great place to take your family for a good aurora viewing.
The right clothing keeps us smiling
Preparation is the key to success. Winter can often surprise us, but we can at least plan ahead for whatever activities we choose to enjoy. The secret is in the layers! Alaska has a low winter humidity that can take the edge off even the most frigid temperatures. When choosing your attire, take into consideration the extra layers or specialized winter gear you might need for the sport or activity. You can never go wrong with the basic warm hooded parka, insulated boots, and warm gloves. Choose your layers carefully. Start with an inner layer such as SmartWool or Under Armour. These light-weight layers fit you snugly and provide the warm hug your body needs. Your second layer should be insulating, but not too warm. Packable layers will be easy to carry during your activity. A fleece or pile jacket and fleece pants can help on colder days. Your outer layer should be a parka or jacket that fits over your layers and provides warmth and wind/water resistance. You will also want to keep your feet, hands and head warm.
A good rule of thumb is to dress warm enough that you’re a little cold when stopping, but fine when moving. If you’re too warm you will perspire too much and get cold from the sweat!
Spending time in the Alaskan outdoors is a great way to remind yourself of all the beauty that surrounds us and find moments of gratitude to push you through. We look forward to spending 2021 working with you and watching you fulfill your hopes and dreams for this year, smiling the whole time!
