Tips to Survive New Hampshire Winter

Rachel Levi

Features Editor

rlevi@plymouth.edu

We, as a student body come from many different places around the nation, even the globe, but we have one thing in common: The task of surviving winter in new New England. While it’s tempting to switch to hibernation mode, and go to bed at 5 pm because by then it’s pitch black outside, doing so may only worsen the winter struggle. Then, there are many of us who find ourselves feeling excited to take advantage of the winter sports offered by the mountains surrounding us.

Whether or not you’re a ski or snowboard enthusiast, or you’re more the type to bulk up and hide out during the cold, dark months, it’s generally helpful to hear a few reasons to be excited about the icy season.

In an article featured in New Hampshire Magazine, authors Tom Long and Stacy Milbouer said “there's a reason why so many famous artists and writers are from New England long winters are the best time to cultivate your mind.” That being said, we have a choice concerning the way we choose to spend our winter breaks. Who says because classes are over we have to stop learning? Try checking out the New Hampshire Magazine website for some ideas about local classes ranging from cooking to six- week journalism courses.

And, that pesky foot-and-a-half of snow you trek through every morning? It doesn’t have to be a burden. Throwing on some snow gear and shoveling will not only improve the safety of traveling in and out of your home, but will supply a great, full body workout as well.

According to the same New Hampshire Magazine article, “a person who weighs 170 pounds burns about 1,250 calories for every 30 minutes spent shoveling. Carlson, who owns the Get Fit NH Boot Camp, suggests a five-minute warm up period of stationary high knee runs, jumping hand claps, forward and lateral lunges and squats before addressing the shovel.”

So, if you’re into the notion of getting in a workout while helping out others, offer some holiday kindness by shoveling for your neighbors as well.

Most importantly do what you can to stay active, healthy, and happy. According to wbur.org’s winter glossary, winter can cause many people to develop Seasonal Affect Disorder (SAD). This term describes what happens when people are cold, indoors and deprived of sun for long periods of time. Symptoms include despair, anger, weight gain, and chalky complexion.

The same article which defined SAD mentions “super bugs,” or sicknesses impervious to antibiotics because the bacteria in New England is stubborn and will likely haunt you for a good four to six weeks.

So over vacation, stay active, go outside and do things that make you happy and stress free.