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Some countries, like Norway and Finland, experience extended periods of darkness during the winter. This can impact a person’s mental and physical health if they don’t prepare for it. If you are planning to travel to a destination above the Arctic Circle from November until February, you will experience at least 24 hours of darkness, called a Polar Night. There are some things you can do both before and during your vacation to help deal with the lack of sunlight.
Soak Up The Sun Before You Leave
You might be tempted to stay indoors with the shades drawn before your trip to try to prepare for the darkness. You should actually do the opposite. Spend as much time outdoors as you can and soak up as much sunlight as possible. You won’t miss the sun nearly as much when you are having to deal with extended periods of darkness and it will allow you to get extra Vitamin D.
Spend Time Outdoors
Those who live above the Arctic Circle don’t stay indoors just because of the lack of sunlight. Exercise allows you to spend time outdoors and warm up. There are a wide variety of activities to choose from this time of year that include snowboarding and skiing. It’s important to remember that just because it’s dark it doesn’t mean that life stops. It’s important to go outside, get some fresh air and keep moving. After all, you are on vacation, you might as well see as much of your destination as possible.
Have A Positive Attitude
One of the most important things you can do when dealing with all of the darkness is to have a positive attitude. Try to see this as a unique opportunity that most people don’t get a chance to conquer. It’s a magical time of year and the extended darkness sort of adds to it. You should see it as a gift and not something to be afraid of or annoyed by.
Take Advantage Of The Light That Is Around You
Depending on where you go, you may be able to see a tiny bit of light when the sun peeks over the horizon. Try to enjoy the hour or so of sunlight, even though it’s just a bit. Remember there are other forms of light around you as well including the moon and the Northern Lights.
Be Aware Of Your Mood
It’s not uncommon for individuals to experience Winter Seasonal Affective Disorder, known as SAD, when they are exposed to darkness for long periods of time. Symptoms of this include depression, isolation and irritability. This is caused by a biochemical imbalance. The best way to combat this is to stay busy. If it gets to be more than you can handle, visit a doctor. For the most part, those on vacation don’t generally experience SAD because their visit is so short.
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