My first Finnish winter exceeded all expectations—both in beauty and challenge. Coming from a tropical climate, I was completely unprepared for the intensity of Nordic winter. Here's my honest account of surviving and eventually loving my first winter in Finland.
The Arrival of Winter
Winter arrived suddenly in November. One day it was autumn, the next day snow covered everything. The transformation was magical but disorienting. I wasn't prepared for the darkness and cold that came so early.
The Darkness Challenge
Helsinki's winter days are extremely short. Sunrise at 9 AM, sunset at 3 PM. The constant darkness affected my mood and energy. I installed light therapy lamps and made sure to get outside during daylight hours. Vitamin D supplements became essential.
Dressing for Survival
Winter clothing is serious business. I invested in: - Thermal base layers - Waterproof winter boots - Wool sweaters and insulated jackets - Winter hat, gloves, and scarf - Layering became an art form
The Cold Reality
Temperatures dropped to -20°C (-4°F). Wind made it feel colder. My face burned, and my lungs hurt when breathing. I learned to dress in layers and protect exposed skin. The cold was physically challenging but beautiful.
Snow and Ice Everywhere
Snow blanketed the city for months. Walking required careful footing on icy sidewalks. Snow removal was efficient, but black ice remained a hazard. I learned to walk like a penguin and appreciate winter tires on cars.
Winter Activities
Finns embrace winter fully. I tried: - Cross-country skiing in city parks - Ice skating on frozen lakes - Snowball fights and snowmen - Winter hiking in nearby forests
Indoor Adaptations
When outdoors was unbearable, I focused on indoor life. University libraries became my sanctuary. Coffee shops provided warmth and social opportunities. I discovered the joy of reading by window light and cozy indoor activities.
Social Winter Life
Winter brought people together. Christmas markets, winter festivals, and indoor gatherings increased. The darkness fostered intimate conversations and stronger relationships. Winter became a time for deep connections.
Seasonal Affective Disorder
Many students experience SAD. I noticed decreased motivation and increased sleep needs. Regular exercise, social connections, and light therapy helped. The university offered counseling for winter blues.
The Beauty of Winter
Despite challenges, winter's beauty was breathtaking. Snow-covered landscapes, frozen lakes, and northern lights made it magical. The silence of a snowy city and crisp air created peaceful moments.
Spring Anticipation
By February, I longed for spring. The gradual increase in daylight brought hope. March brought meltwater and the first signs of spring. The anticipation made winter's end even more celebrated.
Lessons Learned
Winter taught me resilience and adaptation. I learned to find beauty in harsh conditions and appreciate the changing seasons. The experience built character and taught me about different ways of living.
Preparation Advice
- Invest in quality winter clothing - Prepare mentally for darkness - Stay active and social - Use light therapy if needed - Embrace the season rather than fight it
Finnish winter is intense but transformative. It teaches patience, adaptability, and appreciation for simple pleasures. While challenging, the experience enriched my time in Finland and taught me about embracing change.
About the Author: Diego Morales is a third-year Environmental Engineering student from Colombia studying at Kestora University.
About the Author: Thomas Müller is a Third-year Business student from Germany studying at Kestora University.
