5 Ways to Cope With Snow Stress

Remember how you felt when you were younger and would wake up to snow outside? If you’re anything like me, you were PUMPED. Snow days meant a day off of school, sledding outside, and hot chocolate. 

Now, as adults, most of us feel very differently when we see snow on the ground or in the upcoming forecast. Instead of feelings of excitement, we stress. Did we get enough food at the grocery store? Are the schools going to be closed? Can my car make it out of the driveway? And maybe worst of all, what about work?!

I’m grateful I have the ability to pivot my practice if needed. We can offer virtual appointments or reschedule if needed, and most of my clients live close to the office, so if the roads aren’t too bad, we’re usually still able to meet in-person like normal. I recognize this is a privilege. 

Many people don’t have the luxury of working from home, and for them the snow can mean they have to call out of work, losing income, or worrying about how their boss will respond. My sister (only half joking) texted me that she had stress hives because her office hadn’t closed yet for the snow day (they did end up closing — crisis averted). My sister is the inspiration for this post, because if she’s feeling stressed I imagine a lot of other people are too. 

When it feels like so much is out of your control and you’re anticipating being stuck in the house, consider these 5 ways to cope with snow stress.

1. Zoom Out

There have probably been other times in your life when you had to call out of work, deal with school closures, or you had to pivot in another way. Despite how stressful that was in that moment, looking back you’re able to recognize how small that day or week was in the grand scheme of things. Even though the weather feels stressful right now, chances are it won’t feel nearly as heavy a month from now.

2. Embrace the Slowness

We’re living in a hustle culture society where slowing down can make us feel lazy, unmotivated, and is essentially a “problem” to be fixed. Allowing ourselves to rest is an important part of living well balanced lives. Consider snow days nature’s way of forcing you to pause.

3. Stop Obsessively Checking the Weather

I get the urge to check the forecast so you can plan ahead, but constantly watching every news channel and scrolling through conflicting weather updates often increases anxiety. Check what you need to and then give yourself permission to step away.

4. Remember that Everyone is in the Same Situation

This is really helpful if you’re worried about your boss being upset or other negative consequences. Your entire city is navigating the same conditions. Most people will have empathy for your situation, even when it’s frustrating for everyone involved.

5. Tune in to What you Need — Productivity or Leisure

For some people, anxiety builds whenever we’re idle, and if that’s the case for you try to channel that energy into something productive at home. There’s probably at least one household task you’ve been putting off (my closet has never looked better since the most recent snow storm!). On the other hand, your nervous system might be craving rest. If so, allow yourself to slow down without guilt. Take what you need during this time.

Final Thoughts

It’s normal to feel frustrated and overwhelmed when our structures and routines are thrown off, and it’s important to trust ourselves to navigate the uncertainties, even when it’s uncomfortable. I hope you’ve found these tips to be helpful. If changes like this really throw you for a loop, counseling can help. Reach out to get started today.