Adjusting to life in Sweden as an expat: Winter Season
Until 9th of January I didn’t ‘Actually’ realise I am living in darkness for hours until I saw a picture taken in November. What a brightness!
You must be wondering, was I that ignorant to what’s happening around me to realise the darkness only in January. No, the winter in a Nordic country is totally different to the winter we heard of. But it can be a great experience if we prepare ourselves.
I took the below screenshot to show how much daylight we received in November and December. I moved to Sweden in the end of Autumn season and I fell in love with the beauty and healing nature of Sweden day by day.
The darkness is pouring over the trees starting from 3:30 PM and I need my mindset to adjust for this climate. It is a new experience in my life.
The best thing to do was searching about how Swedish people combat this dark hours during the day. Otherwise it is really challenging to adopt in a new place away from family and friends.
Stories I heard about Winter in Sweden is a lot scarier than what I go through in Lund. Since I am living in the south region of the country, the weather is pleasant than Stockholm or Gothenburg.
First Snow Experience
Experiencing snow for the first time is a magical and exciting experience. The sight of a blanket of snow covering the ground, trees and buildings can be truly breathtaking, and many people find the crisp, cold air invigorating.
For those experiencing snow for the first time, there are a few things to keep in mind to make the most of the experience.
Firstly, dress warmly! Make sure to wear a good pair of boots, insulated pants and a warm coat. Gloves and a hat are also essential for keeping warm.
Secondly, take advantage of the snow! Whether it be going for a walk, building a snowman or having a snowball fight, there are many ways to enjoy the snow. If possible, try to find a nearby hill or slope to go sledding or skiing.
Thirdly, take some time to appreciate the beauty of the snow. Whether it be the way it sparkles in the sun or the way it transforms the landscape, the snow can be a truly mesmerizing sight. Take some time to take in the beauty around you and take some pictures to remember the experience. If you like visit my Insta page for winter captures here
Candles and reading
Candles and reading can make for a cozy and relaxing experience. The warm, soft light of a candle can create a peaceful and soothing atmosphere, making it the perfect setting for reading a book. The flickering flame can also add a sense of warmth and comfort, making it easier to relax and get lost in a good book.
Besides creating a relaxing atmosphere, candles can also enhance the overall reading experience. For example, choosing a scented candle can add an extra layer of sensory pleasure to the reading experience, allowing you to enjoy the sights, smells and sounds of the moment. Some people also find that the soft light of a candle helps them focus on reading, as it reduces glare and strain on the eyes.
Journaling
It is amazing to see how the nature changed over a night, loosing all the crunchy autumn leaves into a naked tree. During my free time I am trying to be creative. More than any other day, I feel I have plenty of spare time. So, I started following a weekly routine for journaling. It has always helped me to overcome obstacles and clear my mind. Drawing and writing in the journal will allow you to remind all the good things happen in your life and overcome anything your are struggling with. I believe understanding oneself is key to overcome anxiety and stress.
Many winter nights passed by.
In summary, adjusting to life as an expat in Sweden during the winter can be a challenging experience, but with the right preparation and mindset, it is possible to make the most of your time in the country. Investing in the right clothing, embracing the local culture, staying active and connecting with others will help you adjust to life in Sweden and make the most of your winter experience.