Omo, Canadian winter is something else sha.
Coming from Lagos where “cold” just means harmattan breeze, I thought I could handle winter here. Babe, I was wrong. The first time that snow hit, I legit wanted to cry. I wasn’t ready at all. The cold no get joy.
So here’s me spilling all the tea on how I survived my first Canadian winter, so you won’t enter one chance like me.
Dress for the Weather Not Fashion
That thing your weather app says? Ignore it. Even if it says -3°C, just know it feels way colder. At first, I was trying to look cute with my small jacket. Big mistake.
Here’s what works:
- Wear thermal innerwear (check Walmart or Uniqlo).
- Add a hoodie or sweater.
- Then wear a thick, water-resistant winter jacket.
Get Proper Winter Boots
Those shoes we dey wear for Naija won’t help you here. Ice go just disgrace you. You need boots with grip so you don’t fall. Look for waterproof ones from brands like Columbia or Sorel or go to Winners/Costco for cheaper options.
Moisturize Like Your Skin Depends on It (Because It Does)
Winter air is very dry. If you don’t moisturize, you’ll look ashy. Use thick creams, not the light ones we use in Naija. Look out for:
- Raw shea butter
- CeraVe or Aveeno creams
- Also, drink water. Your skin needs help from the inside too.
Don’t Stay Isolated, It Messes With Your Head
Winter is not just cold, it can make you feel lonely. The days are short and people stay indoors. Try to talk to people, join groups, go for church events, just don’t lock yourself up all the time.
Sunlight Is Rare, Use a Lamp and Supplements
Winter days are short, by 4pm, it’s dark. No sun = low mood. I got a small therapy lamp from Amazon and started using Vitamin D supplements. Trust me, it helped my mood a lot.
Eat Hot Food, Smoothies Can Wait
I once drank a smoothie in -10°C. Never again. It shocked me. Stick to hot food during winter: pepper soup, yam porridge, amala… Anything that warms you up.
Be Ready for Weather Wahala
Sometimes, snow can lock you indoors. Always keep small food at home, light, and a charged power bank. And if you drive, don’t let your gas tank go too low, weather can change fast.
Final Thoughts
Babe, winter here is tough but not impossible. Just prepare your body, skin, and mind. You’ll adjust, I promise. Now, I even kind of enjoy it.. sometimes.
