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\u2019ve 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 \u2013 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.<\/p>\n
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\u2019t 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.<\/p>\n
You need to be winter ready here in Alaska. If you don\u2019t have the proper gear, everything will be harder. Make sure you purchase clothing that is waterproof and warm. Layer, layers, layers \u2013 we can\u2019t emphasize that enough. It\u2019s important to be warm, dry and comfortable while outdoors in the harsh Alaskan winters.<\/p>\n
That parka isn\u2019t 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.<\/p>\n
Sun will always make you feel 1,000 times better. SAD \u2013 (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\u2019t be beat. This is another of the great secrets to thriving…Get outside!<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re 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 \u2013 sunlight.<\/p>\n
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!<\/p>\n