Here’s How to Get Through This Time of Year, and Even Enjoy It

This blog post is sponsored by Arteaga Massage. There are also affiliate links within the post.

Surviving Dutch winter can be harder than surviving much more “brutal winters.” There is constant wind, rain, sleet, and sometimes snow. But most of the time, the snow will melt before lunchtime. It’s a bitter kind of cold that comes with a wet feeling that goes through to your bones. It’s been seven years since I moved to the Netherlands. So, as a seasoned expert, here’s how I get through the darkness and cold without hating it.

Romanticize This Time Of Year

I know many people want to hate on this time of year. But once you learn to romanticize it, life will get a lot easier. I highly recommend you read Lydia Millen’s book Evergreen. The book shows how to find joy in every season and stop hating on the darkness, wind, and cold.

Get yourself some candles, cozy up to a good book, and make yourself a hearty meal or a delicious dessert. Twinkling lights don’t have to be only for Christmas. I keep mine up year-round. Once it starts getting darker earlier, I turn them on. This time of year doesn’t have to be all bad. Your mindset makes a huge difference.

It’s time to slow down, catch up on your favorite TV show, and maybe pick up a new hobby like crocheting or crafting. You can also focus on brushing up your CV and cover letter so you can finally apply for that job you’ve been eyeing. If you feel you need help with those, send me an email. I help people with their CVs and cover letters for a living. Use your time wisely.

Don’t stop going out. Just because it’s winter, doesn’t mean you can’t go to indoor concerts, workshops, eat out with friends, and such. Life doesn’t have to stop just because it’s dark and cold. Life goes on.

Treat Yourself To Some Self-Care

Spring and summer are all about being outdoors, gardening, cycling, and enjoying the sunshine. But once darkness hits, you can recharge in other ways. Why not get a massage every once in a while? If you live in or around Veldhoven, or if you work at ASML, check out Arteaga Massage.

The massage parlor offers four different kinds of massages: deep tissue massage, warm oil massage, relax massage, and sport massage. Clients have nothing but good things to say about the owner, Alex. There are plenty of five-star reviews on Google talking about Alex’s magical hands.

Arteaga Massage also offers every client a refreshing cup of homemade kombucha. I’m a big fan of kombucha. So I’ll never turn down a glass of it.

Many people only think about getting a massage when on vacation. But there’s no harm in treating yourself to some self-care after a long day at work, on your lunch break, or on your day off. You’ll leave Arteaga Massage feeling like you can make the best of this time of year.

Learn To Dress Appropriately

There is nothing worse than spending the day freezing and wet. In this kind of climate, layers like merino wool base layers are your best friends. There are many brands that offer great base layers at all price points. Some of my favorites are from Decathlon, Astrid Wild, and Miss Mary of Sweden.

In addition to wearing base layers, get yourself some good wool socks. They will warm you so much more than cheap cotton socks. Make sure to get some rainproof gear, like a good pair of rain pants, a rain jacket, and even a waterproof hat and gloves. The dryer you stay, the warmer you’ll be. Trust me. The minute your clothes get wet, it’s game over.

Be Smart About Who and What

It’s very important that you keep in touch with your loved ones and spend time with them, especially since you’re spending more time at home. But be careful about who you keep in your life and what you discuss. If someone is constantly complaining about how much they hate the darkness and cold, try to steer the conversation into something positive, or just something else.

Constantly hearing negativity will only make your mood worse. You don’t need that in your life. If you liked Evergreen, the book, maybe recommend it to those complaining about this time of year. Maybe they’ll see that every season can have good things in it.

Working From Home

It may be tempting to take advantage of your flexible work schedule. Maybe you’re allowed to work a few days a week from home. But think about whether that’s best for you. How do you feel when you work from home? Do you feel like it gives you the break you need and the feeling of calm? Or do you feel terrible every time you work from home?

If you don’t feel good working from home, consider spending more time in the office, even if you’re allowed to work from home, or try working from a cozy café. You need a work environment that suits you best. Some people thrive at home. Others thrive working outside the home. Do what’s right and best for you.

For more tips about life in the Netherlands, follow me on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook.

What do you struggle with the most during this time of year?