Winter is coming, but it can be better this year

Winter is coming. While it’s not as dramatic as the plot twists on Game of Thrones, we’ve definitely turned a corner after one of the best summers in recent memory.

My mood is really affected by the dramatic change. Especially when the clocks fall back an hour in November. Remember, there was a stretch from October of 2016 to March of 2017 where the sun came out three times in 160 days, according to Scott Sistek at KOMO. Ouch. That span really took its toll on me.

So I’ve been developing a Sunshiny Mood plan the past few years. It’s not scientific in any way, but it’s been helping me.

First, I got an Alaska Airlines credit card and I buy everything except for my rent with it. I make sure I pay it off each month so there’s no extra fees and I’ve been racking up the miles. Now I will pull out my calendar and plan a weekend trip or two to a sunny spot over the next few months. I prefer Los Angeles, San Diego, or Las Vegas. When using miles, it’s usually about $20 in fees. Grab an Airbnb or stay with a friend, and soak up the sun.

It gives me something to anticipate, and it really boosts my mood.

Second, Vitamin D. It turns out, it’s a thing. The National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine recommends taking a Vitamin D supplement. They call it the “Sunshine Vitamin” and it helps with energy and mood.  I’ve automated this using a feature of my Amazon Prime account. You can create supplement subscriptions fairly easily. Just find the Vitamin D that you like, make sure you click the Prime button, and then you can set up an auto delivery so you’re never out of the Sunshine Vitamin.

And finally, I’m stealing a strategy from Norway. There is a popular phrase there: there is no such thing as bad weather only inappropriate clothing. Both Don and Rachel have embraced this philosophy and have reported back that it’s a game changer. Instead of looking out my window and thinking that I’ll be holed up inside all day, I’m going to try and look at it as an opportunity to get outside wearing the correct gear. Being outside and moving, even when the weather isn’t great, is a big mood booster.

That’s my list, I hope it helps if you dread the long dark winter like I do.

“What Are We Talking About Here” can be heard every weekday at 4:50 p.m. and 6:50 p.m. on the Ron & Don Show on KIRO Radio 97.3 FM.