Embrace the outdoors
While it might be tempting to stay indoors when the winter comes, watching Netflix with a fluffy blanket and popcorn, you can try to step outside for a while, even for a short walk, because it can boost your mood. Exposure to natural light, even if it lasts only a few hours a day, can help regulate our circadian rhythm and combat seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Besides, you could try to experience interesting winter sports, such as ice skating or snowshoeing, which is very popular in Finland.
Stay active
Tampere University also has Sportuni as a place where you can access a variety of group exercise classes and sports facilities available across all three campuses. One of the best parts about Sportuni is its affordability. With a reasonable fee, you can join group classes like yoga, Zumba, or circuit training or take advantage of well-equipped sports facilities.
Being active during the winter can keep you motivated and energized while also maintaining your physical health, and it’s also a great way to meet new people and build connections
Focus on nutrition and rest
Nourish your body with a balanced diet rich in vitamins, especially Vitamin D, which many people in Finland lack during winter. Prioritize quality sleep by maintaining a consistent bedtime routine and limiting screen time before bed.
Prioritize social connections
Winter isolation is common, especially with the shorter days, and you might occasionally feel disconnected from others. However, this season can be also a perfect time to reach out and strengthen social ties. Make an effort to connect with friends, join student activities or hobby clubs, and participate in local events—particularly during the festive Christmas season. Sharing experiences, even virtually, can uplift your mood and foster a sense of belonging and community.
Practise self-kindness
It also can be the perfect time to slow down and embrace self-care. Wrap yourself in a blanket, sip on hot chocolate, and journal about what makes you happy. You can cheer yourself up. You might take this chance to do something new, decorate your space with warm fairy lights and scented candles, add a creative hobby like painting and writing or crafting to your winter routines, or take up meditation or yoga classes.
Last but not least, winter in Finland may be dark and cold, but it’s also a season of beauty, calm, and wonder. It’s a time to embrace self-care and remember that you’re not alone in this journey. If you’re seeking support, the Finnish Student Health Service (FSHS) in Tampere provides access to therapists and mental health treatment to guide you through challenging times.
About the author
Hello everyone! I’m Quynh, a Master’s student at Tampere University, majoring in Human-Technology Interaction. Having lived in Finland for several years, I’ve grown to embrace the Finnish culture and have learned how to navigate the dark winters with practical tips that I hope can help you, too.
So, bundle up, enjoy the frosty magic, and make this winter your most joyful yet!
