Don鈥檛 fall for statements that declare the weather as the imperator of our mood 鈥� a look at the 2016 World Happiness Report shows that the seven happiest countries in the world are countries with generous wintry weather (Denmark, Switzerland, Iceland, Norway, Finland, Canada, Netherlands). Yet, we all have preferences, and weather can brighten you up, or put your mood on ice. So, if you are planning to expatriate soon, or are already living abroad, 禁漫天堂 is here to shelter you from the strong winds, or the blazing sun.
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The impact of cold weather on your body and what to do
In some countries, such as Estonia, Canada, Iceland and Russia winters can last up to five months, and temperatures can drop to as low as -40 degrees Celsius. Whereas you may picture games in the snow, white Christmas, and hot chocolate with marshmallows in front of the fireplace, cold weather may have some nasty side effects on 听your body that you better be prepared for.
Seasonal Affective Disorder: It's what you may better know as the 鈥渨inter blues鈥�. The term was introduced in the early 1980s by the South African psychiatrist Norman Rosenthal, who after moving to New York, noticed that his energy levels and productivity dropped during the winter. Whether the 鈥渨inter blues鈥� are for real, or just a matter of self-imposed gloominess, expatriates can still fight those feelings of weakness and melancholy 鈥� keep your body active, meet with other expats (preferably indoors), spend time on the things you love.
Flu: You can end up bedridden for days due to this contagious respiratory illness usually caused by viruses. Although many of the flu's symptoms are very similar to the common cold, the flu is much more persevering. During heavy winters, keep your immune system strong and healthy with a diet rich in goodness 鈥� fruits and veggies, legumes, fish, broths, and nuts. Also, stop foreign germs by frequently washing your hands and face 鈥� alcohol-based hand sanitizer is a good alternative, but don't overdo it because researches suggest that triclosan can weaken your immune system. Expats over 50 years old, or those at high-risk of developing flu should consider the flu vaccine.
Sore throat and runny nose: These are usually the first signs of a cold, and if you are lucky, or ready to tackle them, they may not progress to cough, fever, and body aches. Drink liquids, put your pack of cigarettes aside, avoid air pollution and crowded spaces, and don't hesitate to follow the vintage recipe of salt water for gargling.
Asthma: Expats suffering from asthma, have to be very careful when moving to a cold country. Spending too much time indoors, you are prone to mold, pet danders, various smells, and dust that can trigger the asthma 鈥� which can become an attack outside with the breath of cold air. So, study your triggers and try to avoid them, cover your mouth and nose when you hop outside, and always have your medicine at hand.
Joint pain: If you are one of those who claim they can predict the weather depending on the intensity of their joint pain, we totally believe you 鈥� studies have proven that changes in weather temperature can increase the pain. Thus, if you have expatriated to a cold country, or are planning to, and you are suffering from arthritis, remember that what your joints like is warmth. Add to your everyday routine some stretching, jogging in place while watching your favourite TV show, and apply heating pads. 听
Injuries: Maybe this isn't something that directly comes to an expat's mind when considering moving to a country with heavy winters, but people familiar with snowy and icy conditions, know that they are susceptible to traffic and slip and fall accidents. There's no need to live in fear 鈥� instead take some basic but life-saving precautions. Among others, wear the proper footwear, walk slowly, change your car tires, and maintain safe distance with the car in front.
The impact of warm weather on your body and what to do
Hot weather might be coming across as less distracting for our body, and is associated with abundance of vitamin D intake, outdoor activities and sports, long days, and enthusiastic temperament. However, especially for those expats not used to high temperatures, the extremely warm weather can be a shock to the body. Here's how to continue enjoying the benefits of the sun without harming your body.
Heat exhaustion: When you are too hot, your body will start sweating. But if the heat is excessive, and you are dehydrated, the body's cooling system will break down, and your temperature will rise. Expect symptoms, such as headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps, and fatigue. Avoid exercising during the hottest hours of the day, drink a lot of water, wear light clothes, and don't ignore your body's signals.
Heart disease: Expats who are aware of an existing heart condition, should be very careful when moving to a warm country 鈥� especially if they are expatriating from a cold climate, and aren't used to burning hot temperatures. Dehydration drops your blood pressure and makes your heart beat faster, which stresses your heart and circulation. Avoid alcoholic or caffeinated drinks, eat water-rich food, use the air condition.
Hay fever: Pollens are released in the early morning, and as the air warms up, they float. As evening comes, and the air cools down, the pollen comes down. Keep windows closed, so pollens don't invade your house, protect your eyes, take a shower and change your clothes when you return home.
Sunburn: Sun damages our skin gradually, and the more sunburns we have had in our lifetime, the more susceptible we are to serious damages (DNA damage and melanoma). So, depending on your skin type, the heat, and the length of your exposure, regularly apply sunscreen, cover sensitive areas, and limit sun exposure.
How a Mexican expat in England deals with the change of weather
Has the British weather affected you at all?
Definitely has had an influence on me. Sometimes I dont have the energy to wake up and work because of the gloomy weather. The big difference is the imbalance between sunny and dark days. I love cold weather, but the fact that most of the time is cloudy, makes me feel bad.
Has your lifestyle in the UK changed due to the weather?
Sure! Because of the rain, wind and cold, I think I am losing my warmth towards people 鈥� the way I socially interact here is different. I also need different type of clothes for each time of the year.
Are you more susceptible to illness in the UK?
No, actually this weather keeps me healthy. The main reason of illness in Mexico for me is the air pollution. In the UK the atmosphere is very clear, so my health problems have reduced a lot.
Do you think it will be hard for you to live in a warm country again?
I deal very well with the British weather, however, I still don't like it. In general, I prefer cold countries but I love the interchange of seasons 鈥� a proper winter to be followed by a sunny, hot summer. Definitely, I could easily live again in a warm country, but not too warm.
How has expatriation to a hot or cold country affected you? Leave your comments below!
