1. Do an outdoor activity - There are SO many fun winter activities to do in Sackville! For example; 

• Skating on Swan Pond or Waterfowl  
• Snowshoeing  
• Sledding down the hill by Convocation Hall 
• Build a snowman or fort  
• Have a snowball fight 
• Go for a brisk walk  
• Skiing at a nearby ski hill (Poley Mountain or Wentworth depending on Covid restrictions) 

2. Buy some bright flowers from Blooms - My roommate and I were recently gifted a beautiful bouquet of bright orange tulips from Blooms by our friend Amy and let me tell you, they were just what we needed to brighten up our apartment! Every time I looked at them, I felt instantly happier. Sometimes a pop of colour during the winter is all you need! 

3. Treat yourself to a warm drink from a local café - We are so lucky to have so many wonderful local cafés in Sackville! My two favourites are Cranewood and Aida’s. One of my favourite things to do if I am having a stressful week is to treat myself to a delicious, warm hot chocolate or specialty coffee. 

4. Make sure you are getting enough vitamin D - I am certainly no doctor, but I know that getting enough vitamin D in the winter is something that all Canadians struggle with. Vitamin D has many benefits including maintaining a strong immune system, helping with a positive mood, and much more. I like to take vitamin D supplements to ensure that I am not deficient (plus if you buy the gummy ones they make for a little daily treat!).  

5. Remember that spring is coming - Everyday that passes, we are one day closer to springtime! I am not usually one to wish my days away, but I would be lying if I said I wasn’t looking forward to the sun setting at 8 o’clock instead of 5. The days are slowly getting longer, and the weather will (hopefully) soon start to get warmer!  

6. Make time for self-care - We all have a different idea of what self-care is to us, but whether your favourite method is taking a warm bath or watching your favourite show, it is so crucial for your mental health. We all know that school can be stressful, so make sure you schedule some much deserved “me-time”. It is just as important, if not more important, than doing your homework!  

Photo: A snowy day on campus in my first year