If you have never experienced a winter as far north as Skellefteå before then I am sure you will have some trepidation about what lies in wait for you over the next few months.

Indeed, even if you have lived through a winter here you may still have some anxiety or dread about what is to come.

As I enter my fifth winter here in Skellefteå I thought it might be helpful to share some ways to lighten and lift the darkest days

Light up everything!

Adorn your home with twinkling fairy lights both inside and outside. You may have noticed houses where windows hold a small glowing ball of light either hanging like a tiny sun or each sill adorned with lamps and candles. Oh, so many candles. The idea is to make your home as cosy, comforting and warming as possible to create a feeling of peace and calm. Many people also find light therapy useful and purchase daylight lamps or alarm clocks to imitate the rising of the sun and set the body's circadian clock.

Don’t hibernate!

While it is a totally natural reaction to want to curl up in bed for the winter, get outside as much as possible! Take a moment during your lunch break to see the daylight and go for a brisk walk to get your blood pumping.

There are so many outdoor activities here to enjoy, from skiing (downhill and cross-country) to skating and ice fishing, snowmobiling to snow shoe hiking. There is no reason to hide away. In fact, places like Vitberget are so well lit that you can still get out into nature, later in the day, have a great adventure sledging with the kids and grilling some korv on one of the many free grills then go home with endorphins rushing and chilly, pink cheeks !

Eat your greens!

Simply ensuring that you eat well and sleep well will be a big boost to your mood and energy levels. The advantages of taking vitamin and mineral supplements to keep your body healthy should not be underestimated. Sharing meal times with loved ones around cosy fires, candlelit tables, or at a restaurant in town is a great way to boost the body, mind and mood. As a holistic therapist I also highly recommend taking regular treatments. 

Whatever makes you feel good, be it a massage, facial, visiting the barbers for a hot shave or getting your nails done, all are valuable treats alongside taking care of your body with good food and exercise.

This is a column and the views are the author's own. It was originally published on norran.se/english, the English part of norran.se.