How to Survive the Swedish Winter - Part 2

As I mentioned previously in Part 1, I am going to provide some valuable tips that the Swedes provide to me to survive in the Swedish winter. So, my special thanks to Amanda Bj?rklund for generously sharing her insights in the interview.

Interview with Amanda

Amanda emphasizes that the Swedish winter can bring varied weather conditions, influenced by geographic locations. Living close to the coast may expose you to freezing humidity, while drier areas in the north offer different challenges. She stresses the importance of diversified clothing to adapt to the ever-changing weather.

• Layering is Key: Amanda recommends owning underst?ll (thermal underwear) as the innermost layer. On extremely cold days, wear them under your regular clothes. Pair this with a good-quality jacket designed to protect against the wind. A thinner windproof jacket may suffice with proper layers underneath, including underst?ll, fleece kofta, and warm pants.
• Essential Winter Accessories: Aside from a warm jacket, don't forget to invest in a warm hat or beanie and gloves to shield your hands from the cold. Maintain healthy skin with hand cream, moisturizer, and lip balm. Waterproof shoes, covering the entire foot and with a rubber sole at least 2cm thick, are crucial for insulation from the frigid ground.

3. Mental and Lifestyle Preparation: Embracing the darker and less active winter months in Sweden requires a mental shift. Nights start early, prompting a calmer lifestyle. Amanda suggests maintaining a healthy diet to manage energy levels efficiently. Additionally, if you have a darker complexion, consider supplementing your diet with extra vitamin D, taking care not to exceed recommended doses.

4. Recap: To sum up, adapting to the Swedish winter involves strategic clothing choices, a focus on mental well-being, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

As you gear up for the winter season, remember Amanda's advice: "There is no bad weather, only bad clothing." Stay warm, stay prepared, and embrace the unique beauty of the Swedish winter.

What I learned from working with the Swedes and what they remind me to do every single day

1) Although the sunlight is not warm, make it a habit to go outside and enjoy a lunch walk. Sarah Felldin encouraged me to embrace this initiative. The first time that I did it, I was surprised by a frozen lake and a breathtaking view, and was the first time that I had the opportunity to walk in a frozen lake.

2) If you miss the sun, no problem! My friend Nataly Araujo recommended a light therapy lamp or SAD lamp, the goal is to bring light to your days.

Read more here: https://edition.cnn.com/cnn-underscored/reviews/best-sad-light-therapy-lamps

Conclusion

Surviving the challenging Swedish winter is not just about mastering the art of layering and investing in quality clothing, it's also about adopting a mindset that embraces the unique beauty of the season. As I've learned from my colleagues and friends in Sweden, the winter demands more than just physical preparation; it requires mental resilience and a commitment to well-being.

As the cold and dark months approach, don't hesitate to seek advice from those who have experienced the Swedish winter before you. Create a list of tips and tricks and try out their suggestions. Sometimes, a simple lunch walk under the cool winter sun, as encouraged by Sarah Felldin , can show unexpected views like a beautiful frozen lake. These small moments can be invigorating and can help you to find joy.

If you still find yourself depressed and the tips don't work for you at all, professional help is a proactive step. Consult with a psychologist or therapist at your v?rdcentral or from your trust (which suits you better), as they can provide valuable support.

Stay warm, stay prepared, and don't forget to celebrate the victories, big or small, that each winter day brings. Embrace the cold, find joy in the simple moments, and let the Swedish winter be a chapter of growth and discovery in your life.

Do you have more tips? Please leave in the comments!!