Paulina Cuadra

So many of my friends recently have told me how they try to go outside as sparingly as possible when the weather gets colder. Please don’t do that! While it might seem counterintuitive to go outside while it is frigid out, staying cooped up means that you will miss out on fresh air and movement. While last winter I attempted to move the least possible amounts across campus, this winter I am doing the exact opposite, venturing outside every possible moment. I’ve noticed I’m not as affected by the cold as I get more exposed to it. Besides, Dartmouth has so many possibilities to offer during the cold months and you should spend as much time as you can outside. So, this term you will definitely catch me going on walks around Occom Pond (woccoms), building snowmen, or sitting around a firepit on the Collis porch while taking in the beautiful Hanover winters!

The onset of the winter months means shorter days, and with that, less access to direct sunlight. This can affect one’s energy levels and even mood. But there is no need to despair, as a sun lamp is a great way to combat a lack of sunlight. Sun lamps (also called happy lamps) are available to rent to all Dartmouth students for a 2 week period at Baker-Berry Library. Using a lamp for 30 minutes in the morning every day has already made me feel better. 

Everyone that knows me knows that I am a huge fan of warm drinks, in my opinion, it’s the best way to stay warm. Being in the library means I must make a mandatory stop at Novack for a hot chai, matcha, or mocha to accompany me throughout my day. Stops at One Wheelock located at the bottom of the Collis Student Center have also become quite common as I make use of the free coffee.

This is the time to venture outside and try out a new winter sport! Coming from Nicaragua, the winter term definitely brings about an opportunity to get out of my comfort zone. Every year, people enjoy ice skating over Occom Pond once it freezes over and can also rent sleds from the College in order to enjoy snow days. The DOC (Dartmouth Outing Club) is very much active during the winter and offers many activities such as skiing, rock climbing, and even hiking. However, I must admit that venturing out on a winter adventure often sounds like a lot for me, so I always have the Alumni Gym to fall back on. This term I am taking a pilates class in order to fulfill one of my P.E credit requirements.

This is something I implement all the time, but especially so during the winter months. Since I get cold easily, I try to search out the warmest places on campus to study. I really enjoy the Tower Room and Sanborn Library which are both some of the more ‘Dartmouthy’ spots on campus with warm lighting and comfortable couches. Another one of my favorites is studying in the Sherman Art Library. 

One of my new year's resolutions this year is to journal and meditate. By taking a moment everyday to reflect I have seen that my mood has been drastically improved. Dartmouth has recently acquired a subscription for all students and faculty for the Headspace app which centers around science-backed meditation. Teletherapy has also been made free to all students and is available 24/7 through Uwill. Similarly, group mindfulness sessions and yoga practices are available through the Dartmouth Wellness Center and are some of my favorite events to attend on campus.