There is some great news for those who don’t love the long winter season here in New York State. As the days have gotten shorter and temperatures have dropped, it already feels like winter is never going to end. But just wait, you’re in store for a big change once again.

A Shorter, Busier Holiday Season in Western New York

The Christmas season is officially here, and it feels much shorter this year because Thanksgiving arrived a little later than usual. The gap between Thanksgiving and Christmas is always a magical time, but this year it seems more stressful than others. Trying to get everything done before Christmas Eve and Christmas Day has become a bigger challenge.

Even with the rush, the spirit of the season hasn’t faded. The snow has made everything feel festive across Buffalo and Western New York.

Winter Sports Make the Season Easier

Many lifelong Western New Yorkers will tell you they never truly got used to the cold and plenty of people simply don’t enjoy winter. As mentioned in previous articles, having some kind of winter activity to look forward to can make December through March much more manageable. Whether it’s sledding, skiing, snowmobiling, or even hiking on a crisp winter day, getting outdoors makes the season far more tolerable.

The Winter Solstice Brings a Big Change

For those already counting down to spring, good news is coming soon. The winter solstice is almost here, typically arriving around December 21. Many people look forward to this date because it marks the moment when our daylight begins to increase again.

We are still a long way from the extended daylight of June, but even a few extra minutes of sunshine can make a big difference, especially for those who drive home from work in the dark. While the increase is gradual and barely noticeable at first, longer days can offer a boost in mood and energy. Medical experts say that even small amounts of additional light can help ease symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, giving your body and mind a better sense of balance.

More Light Can Improve Your Mood

I’ve followed advice from medical and behavioral experts who recommend adding more light to your day during the winter months. I get up early year-round before sunrise and recently started turning on more lights at home and at work in the early morning hours. It has truly made a difference. My body feels more awake and far less sluggish, simply because it senses more brightness.

Read More: Updated WARNING to Those Who Snowmobile in NYS

Simple Ways to Make Winter More Enjoyable

There are plenty of ways to make the long winter months in Western New York more tolerable. Adding more light to your environment or finding a winter activity you enjoy can be part of a healthier routine. And of course, there’s always the old-school option: become a snowbird and spend part of the season in a warmer, sunnier climate.

The good news is that in just a few more days we will officially reach the winter solstice and from that point on, the next stop is spring. Having something to look forward to and embracing what’s right in front of you can help you battle both the winter weather and the emotional effects that come with it.

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Gallery Credit: Brett Alan