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Canadian winter mental health checklist
Exploring cold plunging at Canada’s Polar Bear Clubs
Did you know? Canada boasts 14 amazing winter festivals! From Quebec’s famous Winter Carnival to Ottawa’s Winterlude, these celebrations are perfect for embracing the cold and experiencing the country's winter magic. (via Canadian Train Vacations)
LIVING
Canadian winter mental health checklist
Shorter days, colder weather, and lack of sunlight—if you’ve never experienced winter, it can be quite the adjustment.
According to Dr. Jo Ann Unger, featured on a recent CTV News segment, many people notice a shift in their mood around the third week of January, sometimes called Blue Monday. Self-care in the winter is especially important and simple things like getting outside during daylight hours or staying connected with friends can make a big difference.
Here are a few tips from Dr. Jo Ann Unger on how you can survive—and even thrive—during the winter.
1. Notice the symptoms
It’s normal to feel sad, low, or drained during winter, but if you experience persistent low energy, changes in appetite, or oversleeping, you might be experiencing signs of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Pay attention to these changes so you can take action early.
2. Find the sun
Natural sunlight boosts your mood, so bundle up and head outside whenever possible, especially during midday when the sun is brightest. Even simple, low-prep activities like going for a walk around your neighbourhood or visiting a local park can help. If you’re indoors, try sitting near a window to soak up any available daylight. Exercise outside when you can—it’s a double boost for your physical and mental health.
3. Get enough sleep
Less daylight during winter can affect your body’s internal clock, making it harder to maintain regular sleep patterns. You may find yourself feeling more tired or wanting to sleep longer. Combat this by sticking to a consistent sleep schedule—go to bed and wake up at the same time each day to help regulate your energy levels.
4. Build community
Winter can increase feelings of isolation, so it’s important to stay socially connected. Fight social isolation by reaching out to friends, joining local events, or even volunteering. Building a sense of community helps you stay engaged and supported.
5. Seek support
If your mood doesn’t improve or you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Reach out to your primary care provider or speak with trusted people in your life. Sometimes, just talking about how you feel can provide relief.
CANADA EH?
Things To Do Around You:
Calgary's WinSport Tube Park offers an exciting winter adventure with eight thrilling tubing lanes and a magic carpet to bring you to the top. The park is open from December 21, 2024, to March 30, 2025.
Vancouver’s Lights at Lafarge illuminates the Town Centre Park with a stunning light display encircling the 1.2 km Lafarge Lake loop. Enjoy the lights daily from 4 to 10 p.m. November 22, 2024 – February 28, 2025.
Winnipeg’s We Are Winter Celebration transforms Assiniboine Park into a winter wonderland. Enjoy three days of free outdoor fun, including snowshoe tours, skiing and skating lessons, live music, an 80s Ski & Skate Night, and a glow skate. January 10 – 12, 2025.
Toronto’s DJ Skate Nights return to Evergreen Brick Works, transforming the rink into a vibrant dancefloor surrounded by nature. Enjoy skating, warming up at the indoor Après Skate Lounge, and indulging in food, drinks, and s’mores by the firepits. January 11 – February 22, 2025.
The Annual Toronto Tango Marathon invites you to a weekend filled with Argentine Tango and a lively atmosphere. With dancers from across North America, workshops by champions Jorge Olguin & Sigita Lemesiute, and multiple milongas featuring top DJs, it promises to be an unforgettable event. January 10 – 12, 2025.
Montreal – Celebrate the Chinese New Year at Théâtre Maisonneuve with Feng Hua Xue Yue 2025. The event will showcase dazzling dance, ballet, classical music, instrumental ensembles, and martial arts. Join us for this unforgettable artistic evening on January 12, 2025.
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TRAVEL
Best winter vacation ideas across Canada
Looking for the ultimate winter getaway? Canada offers a variety of unforgettable winter experiences, from skiing to hot springs. Here are five standout vacation ideas to consider this winter. (Source: Destination Canada)
1. Hit the slopes for skiing and snowboarding 🎿
Canada’s mountain resorts are prime vacation destinations. In British Columbia, check out Mt. Washington Alpine Resort. Or explore the slopes of Lake Louise Ski Resort in Alberta, with its vast terrain and breathtaking views.
2. Unwind at spas and hot springs 🛁
Warm up in Canada’s famous hot springs and spas. Try Ainsworth Hot Springs in British Columbia or indulge in treatments at the Riverside Spa in Alberta, known for its peaceful setting by the Bow River.
3. Enjoy offbeat adventures in unique destinations 🏂
For a unique winter getaway, try snowmobiling in Newfoundland and Labrador or experience dogsledding in the Yukon, where you can navigate through stunning landscapes on your own sled team.
4. Explore winter fun in Canada's cities 🏙️
Canada’s cities come alive in winter with festive lights, local boutiques, and outdoor skating. Glide along the world’s longest outdoor rink at Ottawa’s Rideau Canal or enjoy a charming skating experience at Montreal’s Old Port.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Exploring cold plunging at Canada’s Polar Bear Clubs
If you’re new to Canada, you may have heard of the Polar Bear Swim—a fun and invigorating winter tradition.
The idea? Brave participants plunge into freezing waters, often on New Year’s Day, to kick off the year with a splash. First-timers might be surprised to learn that it’s not just about the thrill—it’s about building community, challenging yourself, and embracing the cold Canadian winter.
Here are some of the key highlights for those curious to try it for themselves.
What is it?
The Polar Bear Swim is a mass cold plunge into the ocean on New Year’s Day, with hundreds of participants braving the freezing water.
A brief history
The tradition began in 1920 when Greek immigrant Peter Pantages founded the Vancouver Polar Bear Swim Club. He aimed to build a community around ocean swimming, a central part of life in his hometown.
Why try it?
According to Destination Vancouver, periodic cold plunges can relieve joint pain, reduce inflammation, and boost mood and lower stress.
How to get started
To try cold plunging, dress warmly until just before the plunge, wear water shoes to protect your feet, and avoid alcohol before entering the water. Always listen to your body—stay in the water for as long as feels comfortable. (via Curiocity)