How To Survive a Pacific Northwest Winter

The Pacific Northwest’s winters are famously dark and dreary, with an abundance of rainy days and very little sunshine. As a result, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is common, as is Vitamin D deficiency. It’s not tough to slide into the winter blues here, and keeping them at bay takes some doing.

First, talk to your doctor about taking Vitamin D supplements. Among the many health benefits, the vitamin is also thought to boost one’s mood in low sunlight. Your doctor can order a blood test to see if you’re deficient and can recommend a daily dosage if it’s needed.

Next, stay active. Exercise boosts your mood, and it’s not even necessary to brave the weather to get your heart rate up. Join a gym or an indoor sports league; all across the Northwest, there’s indoor soccer, tennis, even beach volleyball. It’s also a great way to socialize and get out of the house.

Consider picking up other indoor hobbies to give yourself a sense of purpose. Clean, read and take on other activities you might skip out on when the weather is nice. Northwest summers are all about being outside, but look at winter as a chance to catch up on indoor activities that are just as valuable. Having this attitude toward these darker days goes a long way, too.