Embracing Snowmaggedon: How to beat the winter blues

CAYLA VIENT

It’s no mystery that snow is great for the first couple of days, but after a while it can be simply annoying. We can only make so many snowmen and have so many snowball fights before noticing the winter blues.

During the first snowstorm of the year, I was so amazed with it. Coming from a small beach town, I had never seen snow before. I was so sure Uggs were snow boots and a hoodie was a good enough snow jacket; needless to say, I later went on a shopping spree looking for a decent puffer coat. My roommate made a TikTok titled “Things my roomie said after seeing snow for the first time” and it went viral after I called a snowplow a zamboni.

Eventually, after about a week of nonstop snow, I was done with the weather. But, after some self-convincing, I reminded myself that it’s only for a couple of months and if I didn’t enjoy it now, I would have to wait until next season.

So, realistically, the only way to fight it is to embrace it.

Let’s be honest, after slipping on ice over ten times, hearing the phrase “just embrace it” sounds crazy and almost a little annoying. But there are plenty of things that we might not be the biggest fans of, whether it’s that precalculus class that makes you cringe every time you open up your textbook, or your roommate blasting music way too late. Embracing all of these situations will make you so much happier in the long run. We can either decide to be permanently in a funk about it, or be more positive and try to find a good laugh during these dull moments.

Sure, walking to class or going to the gym when it’s snowing can seem like such a hard task sometimes and you might want to give up on it, but if you turn on your favorite song and just take a look around you will see the beauty in it. It’s very easy to be upset about the weather and let it directly influence our lifestyle, but the good news is that there are plenty of ways to be active during these snowy days and make great memories.

For one, you can get so much closer to random strangers through difficult situations the snow puts us in. Either by offering a helpful hand to people up after they fall or pushing someone’s car after it gets stuck in the snow, these situations offer a really unique conversation starter. It could be a great way to make a new friend.

Getting outside and moving can also help beat the winter blues. Even just a little walk to a new place can be enough of a workout, plus it’s always fun to have a little adventure. Going around seeing new things or places is great for getting awesome pictures too. It’s a great opportunity to invite your friends to meet up and not spend money.

Another way to boost your happiness is to take advantage of the snow and go do things you can’t do during the rest of the year. Try making a fun snowman with your friends, an igloo to hang out in or have a snowball fight. There’s plenty of places to go sledding or snow tubing. You can also pick up a new hobby like skiing or snowboarding. NAU’s campus is only fifteen miles from Arizona Snowbowl and if you plan ahead, you can get a day pass for cheaper. Snow sports are a great workout and a fun way to meet new people who could potentially be your snowboard or ski buddy.

Finally, enjoy the weather from the comfort of your room. Yes, it’s important to stay active, but sometimes it’s great to have a “me” day. Watching snow from your room while reading a book or watching your favorite movie can be the best form of self-care sometimes. It’s important for you to have some time to yourself and do something that you like.

Although the snow can be taxing on our mental and physical wellbeing, Flagstaff is lucky to experience all four seasons. Learning to take control of how situations make you feel, gives you the power to always be on top of your mental health. Take a deep breath, read up on some fun things to do during snowy weather and have some fun! Most importantly, always prioritize your mental health.