F*** I Hate Winter
F*** I Hate Winter: Tips for Beating the Winter Blues in Winnipeg
Okay, yes—lots of us hate winter. Or at least, we start to feel down when the weather begins changing, and the snow seems like it's here to stay. If you live in Winnipeg, chances are you’re familiar with how seasonal affective depression (SAD) can creep in as the days get shorter and the sun stays hidden. Vitamin D supplements suddenly become everyone's best friend, and you find yourself yearning for sunshine.
But here’s the thing: Winter doesn’t have to completely suck. I decided to create this list to help you push through those initial winter blues and reclaim some joy during the colder months. Half of my job this time of year is just convincing clients to go for walks, and I get it, some are like, "Chill, Tori, we aren’t as obsessed with walks as you are." And that’s okay! Even just stepping outside for 10 minutes, trust me, will help you feel a little better. Pause and take note of something enjoyable; whether it’s how the snow sparkles, cute footprints in the snow, or watching squirrels play!
The goal? Do things that “just feel good.” You deserve it.
1. Spark Your Creativity (and Beat Winter Blues)
Humans are naturally creative. Even if you’re not the next Picasso, creativity can show up in all kinds of ways: The spices you add to your meals, how you dress, how you dance in your kitchen, or even building something out of wood or clay. The act of creating nurtures your well-being and can provide a huge emotional boost when the cold and dark feel never-ending.
Here are some ideas to spark your creativity this winter:
Plan a paint night with friends or solo.
Try writing a haiku or a short poem.
Cook a new or comfort dish you’ve been dying to try.
Build or make something you’ve been avoiding for a while (hello, DIY project).
Creativity isn't just a way to pass time; it's a great tool to help shake off the seasonal sadness and embrace the beauty in everyday life.
2. Get Outside: Winter Activities to Combat SAD
Okay, hear me out. Going outside in winter can actually be fun. And with the right mindset, winter activities can be a total mood lifter. Grab your friends (maybe a few drinks) and head out for an outdoor adventure—there’s so much you can try in Winnipeg during winter!
Here are some activities you can try:
Skating on the river trail (yup, I’m still learning how to do a proper “hockey stop”).
Snowshoeing through the forest—nature feels different with snow.
Sledding downhill at the park—so fun, even as an adult.
Try ice climbing—there's even a festival for this in Winnipeg called Festiglace!
Go for cross-country skiing (yes, you can rent equipment).
Walks on the river—even just 10 minutes makes a huge difference.
Snow mazes and snowball fights (who says we’re too old for these?).
It’s about changing your mindset and making winter fun. The activities are endless, and they’re a great way to bring joy into the season.
3. Make Time for Friends (and Fun)
Not all friends are created equal. When winter rolls around, it's essential to spend time with people who make you feel uplifted, not drained. So don’t waste your time with soul-sucking friends, make time for the ones who leave you laughing, feeling better, and more like yourself.
Here are some winter-friendly indoor activities to enjoy with friends:
Host a movie night or game night.
Try something a bit more adventurous like axe throwing or rock climbing.
Go for a themed dinner night—pick a theme, cook, and laugh.
Make chocolate fondue and pair it with a cozy chat.
Take a drop-in dance class or go to a sound bowl meditation class (hello, relaxation!).
It's about sharing experiences that bring joy, help you laugh, and create lasting memories.
4. Get Grounded & Add Some Pleasure to Your Routine
As kind, empathetic people, we often give too much of ourselves to others. We get caught up in caring for everyone else, while we fall to the bottom of the priority list. But when you take care of yourself first, you’ll show up better for everyone else. It’s all about filling your cup so that you have more to give.
Ways to add more pleasure and grounding this winter:
Slow down and savor your favourite dessert.
Massage your legs when you apply lotion—take that moment for yourself.
Light your favorite scented candles and enjoy the peacefulness.
Take note of small moments during your day that make you smile—then add more of them.
Self-care and pleasure are important, especially in the winter months when the days can feel long and dark. It’s time to prioritize your mental health and well-being.
Winter Doesn’t Have to Be Your Nemesis
Winter doesn’t have to be a battle. If you’re struggling to shake off the winter blues or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), I’m here for you. Let’s work together to make this winter something you can handle with confidence. Book a session with me today, and we’ll talk about ways to combat the winter funk and reclaim your energy.
Also, don’t forget to sign up for the Luma newsletter! It’s packed with tips, inspiration, and all the good stuff delivered straight to your inbox. Winter’s tough, but you’re tougher. Let’s make this work.