The Ultimate Guide to Winter Sanity

As you may have guessed, this is the ultimate guide to winter sanity. Although the snowy months have not quite set in, yet you can feel that it is on the horizon. The return to Eastern Standard Time is always a tip-off. Halloween has just past and the next major cultural holiday is Christmas. Unlike our neighbours to the south, which will be celebrating Thanksgiving in a few short weeks.

Those that live in warmer climates do not necessarily recognize this transition. Perhaps a change of clothes is necessary, or you may have to change from sandals to shoes to combat some inclement weather. Here in the north, it is like changing postal codes. So put on your long underwear and cozy up to the fire as I relay some ideal ways to combat the long winter months, at least the way we do it in Canada.

DST vs EST

As I mentioned earlier, the time scheme has changed form DST(Daylight Savings Time) to EST ( Eastern Standard Time) Honestly, I am still not sure why we make this transition. I am still partial to sunlight for the majority of the day. I have yet to be cast in “Twilight.” That being said, you need to get used to the fact that the amount of daylight has decreased. Most of us get up in the dark and return from work (day)at night. Sterile electric light is what will need to suffice until the earth changes its orbital path in the spring. This can be hard to get used to, especially if you are longing for the warm sunshine of tropical climates.

Hibernation Time

The natural tendency is to hibernate. Say goodbye to your neighbour – bid them a fond “adieu.” The old “drop by for a drink at Christmas. I hope to see you again in the spring.”

You may be thinking what a gloomy post why would I ever think of going to Canada in the winter if the inhabitants are simply going to remain indoors on the cusp of suicide…Or you can embrace the guide to winter sanity.

It is Bleak, not Black.

The picture I paint is rather dark. As citizens of the north, we find ways to combat this.

Although it is easy to stay at home, the most important thing is to go out. Don’t succumb to the cold weather and the deep snow. I think I can speak for some of our Northern and Southern friends around the planet. Get out, dress for it and explore. Mittens is not a cat!

The Joy of Sport

Ever wonder why Canadians are renowned for their ice hockey play and Norwegians nordic sports? They get outside and embrace what the winter has to offer. I have to admit that it is not always easy. Especially if you enjoy summer activities in abundance. Beyond the sheer exhilaration of feeling your heart pump and seeing the condensed air leaving your lungs as you exhale- crystallizing on your balaclava. The most important thing here is the human interaction. Side note you burn more calories while exercising in the cold.

Sport has been a great way to meet and socialize may that be at the rink or on the slopes. However, we are not limited to those alone.

Stepping Out

I have to admit I am more fortunate than some as I live in a large city where you can find entertaining and social things to do when and if I choose. That being said, and not to be polarizing, those that live in smaller communities also have similar options, not as many, and perhaps different ones. For instance, ice fishing, I just don’t have the opportunity to do this, while others do. I would like to try it. The most important aspect is to socialize.

Community centers

Many communities have a community centre- these had to be created for the winter months. Drop by and introduce yourself. If you like playing cards or board games, I guarantee you will find a group of like-minded people that are just waiting for you to sit down and roll the dice or deal a hand. The community center also offers a great many other activities. If they don’t start your own. There will be someone there that wants to join in. If nothing else, you have perhaps made new friends.

The Happenings Section

You say the sports and community center environment does not seem to have what you are looking for? Can I suggest that you look at your local newspaper- I know I get one it is usually about 25 pages long, they may even have an online version. Here you can find what is going on and where. Do you like Chess? There are groups for that. Literature, you will find those that can’t wait to chat about the newest bestseller or classic. Photography, in fact, I am going to a conference in the future. The point is you can find anything you are looking for in your community paper. I do mean anything. Wink Wink. Just another winter sanity tip.

What’s playing at the Bijou?

I can see your expression, and it is saying, “Jon, that is all well and good, but I am not really a meet and greet type of person.” I completely understand. Another sure-fire way to combat the “shut In syndrome” is to enjoy a night at the theatre. Most cities and towns have both Movie houses and live theatres. I am confident that most offer midweek discounts if you feel that this might be a strain on the pocketbook. Look around I guarantee you can save a dollar or two.

All the worlds a (back) Stage

Have you ever considered joining your local community theatre or Arts group? You may be thinking I have not done anything like this for years, and my thespian times are behind me. You may or may not be right. However, there are many “roles” in the live theatre beyond those that gleam in the “limelight.” Try costumes or sets, here all you need is commitment and a passion for learning. There will always be a professional to lend you a guiding hand.

Feel Creative

Personally, I have always wanted to paint- I currently do a magnificent wall, and one day I will finish that wall. Unfortunately, I am brutalizing the guitar and write and work. But one day, I will. It is on my bulletin board, yes, it is a board, not a task in “Outlook.” Arts groups, like theatre groups, are always very welcoming. They offer you an ideal opportunity to explore some of your talents that may have been left dormant over the years or perhaps allow you to embrace your hidden Henry Moore, Group of seven, or Monet.

Listen to the squeak of your boots.

Many cities and towns have local galleries and museums. Many are free, while others charge or ask for a donation. Galleries and Museums can be specific in their offerings, making them thought-provoking, educational and entertaining. Walking around the Art Gallery Of Ontario (AGO), on a Tuesday afternoon is ideal. It is quiet and serene. Often I feel like I am in the film “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” directed by John Hughes, me and just priceless pieces of art. In Toronto, both major museums offer discounted rates at certain times. I am sure that this is consistent across the country. Please check with the individual locations for more information. 

“There is always something fresh.”

One of the events that I know is very popular, no matter where you live in this beautiful land, is to meet a friend for a cup of coffee. I have yet to see a city or Town in Canada without a Tim Hortons. For those that are not familiar with “Timmy’s,” please allow me. Tim Horton played with the Toronto Maple Leafs and died in a car accident. Before his demise, he founded a coffee shop that is now a National icon. One might say the “Starbucks” of the North. 

If coffee is not your cup of tea,” head to your local and link up with some friends there. Sit down on your favourite seat, watch the game and do some “tongue-wagging” with patrons old and new. Who knows someone may even yell “Norm” as you enter. 

Donkey is not on the menu. Ass.

Although it is sometimes easy to differentiate between a taco and a bowl of soup after a while, it no longer matters. Hating the food I have been preparing, I now need to find someone that has gone to culinary school or at least a better palate than my own. Sitting down for dinner that I can enjoy with my family. Perhaps a glass of wine and simply enjoy their company. Dining comes in many price ranges and experiences, find the one that is right for you. Spice it up a little, bring your mistress, Kidding. Or other family or friends. There doesn’t need to be a reason other than it is essential to leave the house for a few hours and simply enjoy it. Cultivate your inner Gordon Ramsay.

There is an adventure everywhere.

Winter will soon arrive in my part of the world. I have found my warmer clothes, boots are on the able. Slowly becoming resigned to the fact that I will need to endure another once again. You may have guessed I don’t embrace it the same way snowboarder in Whistler may. 

As you can see, there is no need to endure “cabin fever.” Get out and meet your neighbours, shovel their walkway and share a glass of whiskey or tea. Join a local group or club. Watch a film, go to a museum. 

With so much that is available to do, you would be surprised at how little time you can spend at home. There is no need to fall into the “shut-in syndrome.” Winter, like summer, has much to offer, although it takes a little more time and effort to find it. As the slogan from that shoe company would indicate, “just Snowshoe it.” I hope you have found the Ultimate guide to Winter sanity, the ultimate guide. See you at the Community centre.

I thank you as always for taking the time to read this. I hope it helps you alleviate the Winter blues.

Your Vacation. Your Escape.

VTE