14 Secrets to Thriving during an Alaskan Winter – Part 1
Did you notice we said secrets to thriving and not just surviving? Winters in Alaska are legendary and scare away many tourists and seasonal employees. If you’ve read any book or watched any movie about Alaska, you will note the common theme of the importance of preparation for winter in order to survive. Our beautiful state brings us joy, beautiful scenery and occasionally SAD – Seasonal Affective Disorder. Here are a few ways to keep the winter blues at bay and keep yourself warm all winter in the gorgeous Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla and Mat-Su Valley areas.
1. Be a good neighbor
This is one of the best secrets to thriving and is actually pretty simple, and only requires a bit of empathy and occasional hard work. Throughout winter there is never a shortage of people in need. Winter is hardest on those in a weakened condition or with poor health. The pandemic certainly hasn’t helped anyone to thrive either! Take a moment to see if you can shovel a driveway, chop some wood, pick up some groceries or just carry something or someone up an icy path.
2. Purchase proper clothing
You need to be winter ready here in Alaska. If you don’t have the proper gear, everything will be harder. Make sure you purchase clothing that is waterproof and warm. Layer, layers, layers – we can’t emphasize that enough. It’s important to be warm, dry and comfortable while outdoors in the harsh Alaskan winters.
3. Wear what you buy
That parka isn’t going to do you in good if you leave it in the closet. Always be prepared for weather changes. Take the time to pack a small bag and leave it in the car with warmer clothes for sudden and drastic weather changes. You never want to be caught unprepared even on a deceptively warm, sunny afternoon.
4. Worship the sun!
Sun will always make you feel 1,000 times better. SAD – (Seasonal Affective Disorder) mentioned at the outset affects so many of us here in Alaska. This disorder can cause us to feel moody and listless. You can beat the winter blahs by getting a healthy dose of vitamin sun every day. You can sometimes purchase some artificial sun for your home or office, but the real deal can’t be beat. This is another of the great secrets to thriving…Get outside!
5. Don’t forget the moon
The moon is highly underrated. Moonlight is a beautiful way to take in the beauty of our Alaskan winter. Our winter days are short, but we have the most beautiful, long sunsets. Winter activities such as skiing, sledding, running and walking in the woods make for gorgeous moonlit starry evenings and mornings.
6. Get a change of scenery
Plan an adventure somewhere if possible. A change of scenery can help you to break up the long months of darkness and refresh your soul.
7. Plan your drives during the day
If you’re planning to head out on a trip, make sure to plan to travel during the daylight hours to ease some of the stress of travel. Nighttime roads can be treacherous with dizzying blowing snow and frigid temperatures. Planning your drives during the day can often be safer and less stressful, plus bonus – sunlight.
8. Get outside!
Get outside and into the Alaskan wilderness. Take advantage of mountains and oceans and all of the winter sports Alaska has to offer. Altitude can change your attitude!
These are just a few tips to help you thrive during our Alaskan winter. Stay tuned for 8 more tips to keep those winter blues away in our next article.
