My daily routine & FIVE BEST TIPS on how I stay happy living in permanent darkness | SVALBARD

How do I get through such long periods of darkness? How do I stay so happy? In this video I share my best five tips (it's actually six) on what I do to feel my best during the most difficult time of year. Living in permanent darkness, or in winter in general, can be tough on the body and mind and in this video I tell you how I best stay on top of my health this time of year. Thank you so much for being here! Love y'all! ☕️🧡
Check out our Patreon for more content and to support our channel ♡ / ceciliablomdahl
0:00 Welcome back to Svalbard
00:41 Sleep schedule
02:19 Power of mindset
03:35 Fresh air
10:06 Nutrition & supplements
11:42 Love your space
13:17 Exercise & balance
16:51 Love y'all!
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About Cecilia:
Cecilia Blomdahl is originally from Sweden and moved to Svalbard 7 years ago. She works as a photographer and videographer in Longyearbyen, and with her social media channels. Check her out on tiktok and instagram under her handle @sejsejlija! Here on youtube she posts videos about her daily life in her cabin with her boyfriend Christoffer and her dog Grim, living just outside of Longyearbyen. Subscribe for videos about her daily life as well as adventures on an island close to the North Pole. They have polar bears there!

[@kathrynnielson5689]

I 100% agree with attitude. I have always been so anti-winter to the point of being angry, and this year I decided I was going to change that. I stopped saying things like “I hate winter. Why can’t I live somewhere warm?”etc. I’ve added candles, started reading seasonally, getting outside for walks everyday which means having warm enough clothes to do so, etc. I can’t tell you how much better this winter has been. I will never be friends with winter, but I don’t hate it anymore.

[@erinhumphries9229]

I agree! I had the same attitude and wanted to change that so I started walking, reading, working out and being more active! I like the winter a lot more now!

[@brettharlow7010]

I have a love/hate relationship with winter,...I aspire for more love and less hate.

[@stephmcghie8732]

Absolutely summed up my thinking about winter this year, I've really had to give myself talkings to and not fight winter! It's a season we just have to go through and every day is a day closer to spring and summer, lots of cosy lighting and candles everywhere. Thankyou Cecilia 🙂 lots of love from England x

[@Maialeen]

I'm the same but with summer. It's more difficult to be positive about summer if you're not a beachy person and live somewhere where summers are long and harsh. Everything is bright and yellow to the point it hurts your eyes, if there is wind it feels like a hot hair dryer. Walking anywhere is agony because it's so hot. Kind of sad when it's so hot and humid that all you can do is sit inside with the blinds down. I really want to find at least some good in it since it's so relentless.

[@Gwaycee]

I have lived on the equator all my life, so winter is something we only see on photos. I only once have travelled to Europe during winter and it was one brutal month. I don't know how you guys hang in there till it ends, but if you ever feel like you must escape, come on down here and let the sun give you kisses.

[@l.e.o2424]

Anyone else find it funny how she opened up her window curtains after waking up, even though it is dark all of the time? 😆 Great video, as always!!

[@darnitthelma4247]

😂

[@rrr441]

Personally I prefer winter to summer. I love the cozy vibes, the hot beverages, the comfy winter clothes, the crisp air, seeing my kid waddle in her big snowsuit, baking cakes when it's raining or snowing outside, hearing the snowplows outside when I wake up in the morning, taking a hot shower after a long hike. It's the best.

[@AngelLuluBlu]

Yes! Me too! Fall and winter are my preferred seasons and I despise summer and heat. I love hiking, but only in cold weather so winter is a magical time for me. I love cozy sweaters, boots and bundling up. The cold, crisp air is exhilarating to me!

[@MissMoontree]

It is okay when you don't have a walk/bike commute to work. It gets so cold and wet

[@rrr441]

@@MissMoontree I ride my bike almost everywhere actually. Even right now it's snowing and I bike to work everyday. Granted there aren't 10 km and I'm not very fast :) but public transports are so expensive...

[@northwoodfalls1403]

Being Canadian, winter is an inescapable part of life. I got tired of being so tired and low spirited for such a long stretch of the year. After a lot of introspection and searching around for inspiration, I came to the conclusion that it was so difficult because I was mentally and emotionally fighting it. So instead I decided to embrace it. To relish in aspects of it like super warm and cozy clothing, lots of blankets around the house, keeping the lighting calm and low, lots of candles, warm drinks, plenty of firewood ready to go so I could light a fire whenever the mood struck, having some good books stockpiled and waiting, some knitting projects to tackle or some other new skill I wanted to learn, and yes, making sure I was getting outside every day, no matter how horrible the weather, for some fresh air and exercise and that vitamin D is a must. Anyone living in a northern climate is likely deficient unless they’ve been consciously keeping their levels up with supplementation. It really does make a difference (get sick less often, feel more energy, better mood). Once upon a time I would have seen this video pop up on my feed and it would have made me recoil on the inside “who the heck would want to live so far up north?!?!”😅 But since I have stopped battling against winter and have found my peace with it, I thought where you live looks beautiful and it would be quite an experience to be there at that time of year. Mindset really does make all the difference 😊

[@electricpurple4112]

This is ignoring the real changes that happen to some people when light exposure is removed. It's real that light triggers and helps produce production of serotonin and regulates energy, sleep-wake cycles (it's just worse in some more than others). Like how some plants will die with no/less light, so will some people in a lot of ways. The kinds that can live in basements with no issue can certainly live in a place with less daylight!

[@cheriebrinker3301]

Cecilia is the perfect example of finding light in the dark. Thank you for sharing. Many blessings to you and yours 💜💜

[@gabrielleparis3532]

Grateful to you Cecelia about your comment "working at home broke me." Working at home 14 years now, I found how important it is to PLAN & SCHEDULE daily social interactions and exercise as well as spending time in nature as much as possible. It's still challenging, and sometimes lonely but I don't miss commuting. We don't have winter here but those four home office walls seem to close in pretty quickly around you day after day.

[@CeciliaBlomdahl]

🧡🧡🧡

[@chandaharkins4418]

Same here! It's ironic, but the last five years at home have been very unhealthy for me. I've gained 23 pounds and feel anxious all the time.

[@jenniferbeck7984]

Honestly one of my tips is watching your videos! When I feel a little depressed because it’s dark or cold here I see you smiling and making the most of it there and it’s inspiring and helps. Attitude is everything ❤

[@CeciliaBlomdahl]

❤️❤️❤️

[@soniamachado3685]

Your videos have made me embrace winter in a whole new way. I’ve learned to enjoy winter and coziness it brings!

[@hollylanevintagetreasures]

Same here!! Totally look at it in a whole new light and appreciate it in a way I never have!

[@karolinamackiewicz514]

Same here! 100%. Greetings from Finland!

[@DancingWithTheWolf]

Same here 🥰

[@robinannduquette]

We're moving back to Canada from California this year, so I'm going to channel this and romanticize the seasons when we move!

[@britaggies2365]

Me too! By comparison, the grey clouds of the UK don't seem as dark this year!

[@lorig8307]

As a Canadian what works for me in winter is Mexico 🌴🌞⛱ And watching your videos. From Mexico 😀 I really admire your positive attitude!

[@sharondoan1447]

Absolutely refreshing to give yourself a Winter break from all the extremes of northern climates. Midway through whatever you usually find to be the most tiresome portion of the Winter, plan at least a two week absence. Best mental health medicine possible.

[@judithstrenio9552]

Looks like she took this advice 😂

[@lorig8307]

@@judithstrenio9552 happy to oblige 😆

[@thehappysunshine21]

I complety agree with this. Living in Canada, I used to complain about the winter constantly and get bad winter blooze. During covid, I forced myself to go for walks all winter, celebrate the little things, and make special moments. Now, I have two huskies who help me enjoy my walks even more. I also continue to make special plans in the winter months to give me something to look forward to.

[@Naedlj]

I can’t believe how well your camera picks up the landscape in complete darkness! Beautiful!

[@catieb6782]

i love the background noise of the children playing when you were parking at the gym . It’s so sweet to hear little ones having fun!

[@CeciliaBlomdahl]

it was recess at school and they were all sledding down a hill on mats! Looked so fun!!

[@catieb6782]

@@CeciliaBlomdahl that’s precious!!

[@bethanyplatt4237]

I'm actually the exact opposite. I thrive in winter and dread the long, hot summer months. But this advice can be translated to the summer as well and I'll start implementing them now in preparation.

[@comfort-and-joy]

Same! That’s so wise. I’m on west coast of the US and part of that is now (unfortunately) wildfire smoke preparation.

[@kalain8970]

Me too

[@susanunger2278]

I'm the same way, Bethany. I dread summer with a passion.

[@carinasalminenkajley4429]

I was thinking the same!

[@evepatchett8481]

I dislike the summer. Pollen allergies ☹️. I find it hard to cope with high temperatures & high humidity. I also dislike spiders and wasps, also mosquitoes. Need a plan of how to enjoy the Summer. I love the Winter, Spring & Autumn.

[@y.l.2465]

100% live in the north and we are having an atrocious winter. Everything you said is absolutely accurate. Wake up, get moving, give yourself time and having pets helps with that alot. Kidless over here, so having our pets helps us stay on schedule and get outside and move no matter what everyday. Even if it's for a walk with the dogs down the street.

[@jacquelinebonneau5102]

Where are you in the North?

[@y.l.2465]

@@jacquelinebonneau5102 the Dakota's. Feels north since we moved from AZ.

[@liskalangdon6576]

@@y.l.2465 that is absolutely North!!!!

[@emesfion]

Struggling through Winter is me in a nutshell right now. I need to get more scheduled because it's too easy to stay cozy, sleep too much, and emotionally eat rather than exercise (even though exercise is my happy place). I'm so glad to see these basic difficulties normalized. So note to self: start with a morning walk, eat a breakfast that makes me feel happy, make reasonable gym goals that feel fulfilling, and get regular with my sleep.

[@Sarabear1117]

The full moon is so beautiful!!! And it makes everything, the clouds, the mountains, absolutely glow!

[@Lilly-hh9es]

I love moon and stars ☺️💛

[@ReinaSanchez]

I'm experiencing my first winter here in Spain. I'm from Venezuela where we do not experience the 4 seasons and have sunlight all year round. I can definitely notice how my mood completely changes whenever it's sunny outside. In Galicia, out of 7 days of the week, 6 are gray and cloudy. I notice that moving my body is so key. Keeping my meditation practice and journaling helps me to keep my mind in the present moment. But mostly, practicing gratitude every moment I can. This has helped me the most to enjoy where I am right now as I build the life I want.

[@ClaireDeLune2848]

I relate so much to your experience with work-life balance after you went full-time with content creation. I've been a freelancer (WFH) for going on 5 years now, and I STILL struggle to motivate myself to do "normal person" things outside of the house, like going to the gym and taking myself out at night even when I don't have plans with friends. In a way, having a flexible schedule has made me feel limited in how much time I have simply because I'm the one setting my own boundaries ... and I'm apparently not good at that! So, yes to prioritizing movement and living your life in 2023!

[@mtnshelby7059]

Grim says, Mom let's go!!!! This morning walk is a wonderful morning practice, good for you!! I cultivated that habitat in the much less challenging mountains of Colorado and decades later, I still continue. The practice becomes a lifelong habit, so emotionally and physically good for you. Love your vlog!!!

[@Wildflowerslori]

I saw your video pop up and let out a little “Yaaaay!” Honestly these tips are spot on. I live in Cleveland, Ohio and while we don’t have polar nights, they CONSTANT gray skies are enough to send me over the edge. I have adopted your same tips over the years but this year I’m putting a big focus on physical activity. I too could stay in bed for 15 especially January-March. You’re Chanel is my current favorite! 😊

[@wendygianfrancesco8774]

Same over here in Pittsburgh. It's always so gloomy.

[@Wee162]

Yep - here in Cleveland the winter is gray gray gray. Don’t mind the cold, just the lack of sun.

[@elieceful]

I love how your routine is almost identical to my routine in Seattle! Sunrise alarm, cuddle puppy, coffee, walkies, Meditate (preferably outside), plan and go on with my day!

[@merkitten953]

A morning walk can be life changing if you keep it up. I exercise later in the day, but no matter what, unless im exhausted or sick, every morning i get up and take a 20 minute walk. I feel the fresh air, sometimes get some sun (its often foggy where i live), get my heart rate up, stretch my legs. Sometimes i listen to music or a podcast, sometimes i just listen to the birds and the sounds of the neighborhood waking up. I highly recommend it :) ☀️

[@arthurtrevino9844]

Cecilia, I love your life. I live in Houston, Texas USA. Here we freeze in 40F weather, and our summers bake us at 100F and above. You, in contrast, live in PEACE. I love Grim too.

[@karolinamackiewicz514]

I live in Finland since 2008 and every year around 15-20 Dec I felt like a zombie. I must say that watching your videos and observing how you embrace winter helper me to add a bit of coziness into this year’s winter and make it much more enjoyable. I use wakeup light, do sports but I think the attitude is a game changer. Thank you!

[@KimchiDog]

A fellow foreigner in Finland, feeling like a zombie in the winter, hey there! 😅❤ I think I really have to change my attitude....AND increase the vit D supplements. Uh and maybe like, go to Canary islands for 2 months 😅

[@ambrasones6545]

I live in Minnesota and was starting to feel super low energy because it hasn’t really been that sunny lately and cold and snowy…Watching your video I have NO EXCUSES 😂 very inspiring

[@StrangerInLaw]

From the darkest night comes the brightest sunshine. Thank you Cecilia for always brightening my day☀

[@vallovesnature8449]

I absolutely love winter! The crisp air & snow just makes me happy. I actually lose weight in the winter so I have to have a decent amount of calories every day. I’d be walking everyday in Svalbard. You actually got me taking vitamin D. I take 5000IU once a week & it’s made a world of difference. Enjoy your bliss! Sending you, Christoffer, & Grim lots of hugs and love ❤️❤️❤️

[@ni6toli4no]

it is so calming watching you and Grimm in your polar nights :)

[@Paheena1]

I love how consistent you are about releasing new videos. You are a true professional 👌🏼

[@CeciliaBlomdahl]

Thank youuu! 😃😃🙏🙏 I really appreciate it 😭

[@pemanumb703]

@@CeciliaBlomdahl A W is absolutely right. Your drive and professionalism is off the charts.🇨🇦

[@jessicalubien5424]

I started taking the calcium chews with the D3. The calcium helps you better obsorb the D3 and i have noticed a significant improvement. Winter in the Northeadt US isn't totaly dark but our days are short and we have lots and lots of very cloudy days. Attitude really is everything.

[@Crochetlady3-l1o]

Yes. I totally agree that attitude and exercise shapes everything in our life. We maintain a sleep schedule as well, and make it a point to get outside and walk at least 6 days/week. Especially to our beautiful state park here in Myrtle Beach. 💕😊🏝️ 2:04

[@TheThreebucks]

What a next-level video, so good, so well done! I love how you left the camera in one spot during your walk with Grim down to the corner! So cool!

[@CeciliaBlomdahl]

Thank you so much! 😃🧡

[@maureenpomeroy7293]

Both I and my daughter starting watching your channel without the other knowing it. Then I mentioned you to her and she replied, "Cecilia?" Too funny right? Every year I do a snow white Christmas village display in my home. This year I named it Svalbard. However, it includes trees, which I know you don't have. 💜

[@passiveaggressive6175]

To all the comments in this chat about struggling during dark winter. Bless you all. I did not know it was such a thing. I am praying for you all🙏🏾

[@emilyhare-t9i]

Happy Sunday! It was 8: 30 a.m. and I didn't even realize it was light out yet. Last year, the northern lights made it to North Dakota. During the night. Like a little visit from Slavbard.

[@vashti2389]

I love to follow channels that are the complete opposite of my life. Your channel, and Nicki Positano are my current favorites 🌍🌏🌎❤️

[@amyeastin5263]

Thank you for the great tips. You are inspiring all of us to better routines. (Loved hearing the children’s voices in background of the gym). Have a wonderful trip.

[@louisejohnson6057]

One thing that I love about winter on the Canadian prairies, is how much sunshine we get here. It's quite different than where I grew up, on the far west coast of Canada, on Vancouver Island, in British Columbia. Vancouver Island is a temprant rainforest, so yeah, it rains a fair amount, especially in autumn and winter. Some of the the still living trees that have been found in the old growth forest of the island are very old, one being 1636 years old, and another 1350 years old. The oldest known tree to have been found, was what had been a sacred Yellow-Cedar. It was discovered, or its stump was, in 1980, by an environmental protection group. This group is still fighting to protect these true ancient wonders of nature, from logging. This massive tree stump indicated that this yellow-cedar was 1835 years old when it was killed, along with every tree near it, in a repugnant practice known as Clear-Cutting. In this practice they go in and cut every single tree down in a huge swathe of these environmentally crucial old growth forests. Many different creatures are 100% dependent on these old growth forests to survive. If you want to see one of the rapes of Mother Earth, then Google, Vancouver Island old growth forest clear-cuts. That magnificent tree, had it not been killed, would be 1876 years old today. The birth of Christ happened only 147 years before the birth of this tree. Sorry for the rant, I'm very passionate about protecting these important forests.

[@Fluuuv]

Cant do snow so I love the rainy grey weather of Vancouver Island winters. You're right about protecting old growth forests.

[@louisejohnson6057]

@@Fluuuv I love the island weather too, especially the fog and warm summer rains. What I do love about living in Winterpeg is the snow, the massive thunderstorms, and the increase in hours of sunlight. I live quite close to the Red, so we get fog fairly often, but it's not the same because there's no smell of the ocean. I miss the ocean so much, and the big trees and the flowers everywhere.

[@wendygianfrancesco8774]

Thank you for sharing so much of your story and the struggles you've faced over the last year. So many times people just want to show the best parts of life and not discuss anything unpleasant. Thank you for the honesty. I loved your comment about balance, and I wish you well on your journey.

[@belindahugheslifestyle]

Totally agree, Cecilia. Had no idea, but am not surprised, that you were that much of an athlete. You clearly know your way around the gym, hiking and injury prevention, and you cover health and fitness topics with a certain wisdom in addition to the facts. Grim is such a cutie! Those nachos look delish. 🏔💙💛💜💖🐾🐾

[@brendasnow8255]

I think you e got a head start on being happy, because it is your normal state, and you are an eternal optimist!

[@CeciliaBlomdahl]

So true! 😊✨️

[@carolynanderson6545]

So very happy to see you having a great polar night. It was so hard to watch you struggle last year. Absolutely agree with the fresh air and exercise routine. You have to put yourself as a priority. Your walk video was spectacular. Twinkling stars and the moonlight with some northern lights thrown in...FABULOUS!

[@trinityloewen8141]

True about attitude. After 50 years living in Minnesota (seems to be colder than Svalbard and more snow at least in the winter months), me and my husband moved to South Carolina! Now I love winter and can garden all year❤️❤️❤️.

[@pamcomer5728]

Carrying on as normal during the beautiful Polar Nights must be difficult, love your positivity, Grim just warms my heart ❤ xx

[@Kari_B61ex]

I agree with you 100% about taking Vitamin D - it really does help. I live in the UK and although we don't have polar night here, our winter days are shorter and they are often grey and gloomy. It sometimes feels endless. I started to take Vit D3 at the beginning of the pandemic lockdown, I was amazed how well it worked in helping to elevate my mood. Prior to taking it I often felt 'low' during the winter months. I also bought myself a therapy light as I found that during lockdown I was going to bed at 7/8pm (out of boredom) and would wake up at 3am. My circadian rhythm was shot to pieces. Bright light therapy got it back into sync again.

[@mazarini6187]

Hello from Siberia❤ I absolutely agree that attitude very important. And sometimes comparison helps. I often think how ancient people lived when it’s -45 outside. Now we have lot’s of stuff around and only we need to change our attitude.)

[@Rileyw239]

Balance is such a good goal for the year and one I hope to attain as well. I’m trying to use this year to start my own fitness journey and get my mental and physical health in a positive place despite living far from home.

[@kit2130]

Where does Grim sleep at night? Also, just my own winter tip. I love growing mint, cilantro, basil, spinach & lots of lettuces inside under a grow light especially in winter. Not only is it fresh & practically free food but it feels like I have a bit of summer inside my house. I love smelling the sweet soil, clipping leaves for a fresh clean salad, watering & watching it grow while it’s freezing outside & just seeing the light over growing greens!

[@gewing61]

Glad you are in a better place. The polar nights must take quite an effort to conquer. Beautiful walk and I love your breakfast. I am retired and a routine is so very important. My dogs Nyxe and Bess keep me on track! Thanks for sharing.

[@iamsil5793]

If someone’s thriving it’s definitely your dog! Never seen a dog so satisfied. I have a similar but a small version and he would loooove to live there, too bad I don’t like winter tho. I like these tips tho, basic but so important

[@queenofdramatech]

Having an off day but this made everything so much better!!!!

[@annescholten9313]

Looking forward to see you next week, Cecilia. Hugs from Holland

[@jelizabethpetrie6656]

Coffee + Dogs = Happy Life ->Your latest content was exactly the answer to my pondering 2-1/2 months of total darkness 😮. After I was just cursing the umptheenth cloudy Mid-west day since November. You are 🌅 my dear!

[@rl3810]

We've been having a very odd winter. The sun has only been out once in over a month. I, too, have had to develop a morning routine to get me up and motivated for the dreary darker days. I had no idea the lack of sun would effect my body and mind. I had my victim D checked, and it was 18!!! I am now on a daily supplement partly thanks to you and your video about low levels. My hair started falling out. I was fatigued, I was having severe muscle spasms. I'll tell you what vitamin D is very important. I love your videos! ❤️ you are a wealth of information and stress relief. 🤗 keep up the great work!

[@cherylb6755]

RL~ Damn. I’m glad you seem to be on the mend… good for you!

[@rl3810]

@Cheryl B ❤️ thank you! It was rough for a while

[@cherylb6755]

@@rl3810~ 😉

[@Miss_Annlaug]

"Winter survival and health maintenance" should be taught in schools here in the north. Our physical and mental health get wrecked by the darkness if we dont follow certain routines.

[@11kathleenanne]

Good morning Cecilia and happy Sunday ❤☕️

[@m.montague5228]

Love this! In fact, I’ve watched it over & over again. I actually live in Southern California, but I live up in the mountains & in the winter, because the sun is lower, the trees block out a bunch of the light and it’s usually so dark in my house. I also work from home most of the time. I’ve always kept as many lights off as possible because I didn’t want to waste electricity but then I get depressed. Why didn’t I think of putting of little light strands?! I love that idea! Watching your video not only put things in perspective, (at least we GET sunlight! 😂) but you gave the best advice. I love your channel and I love the baking videos with Christopher. Thank you.

[@hopeard3512]

I get depressed and angry in summer, as I despise the heat and humidity. I long for autumn and winter… LONG for it. This summer I really tried to find happiness in this hot season. It hasn’t been easy, but trying to get out for hikes and lake days has helped.

[@Suzie66]

This has just really helped me, suffering quite bad for the last couple of months with my mental health, just those tips have really helped thank you.❤ love your videos, I look forward to them xx

[@markuserikssen]

Great video again and good that you openly talk about the difficulties of a work-life balance. You know, if it's not always bad to take a step back, to take it a bit slower, whenever your body needs it. I also work from home on websites and content a lot, so I kind of know how it feels to be stuck inside, in front of a screen. I really admire your courage! I hope this winter will be better for you. 😄

[@malloryanthony8921]

I discovered this channel last year and Cecilia definitely helped shift my mindset about winter. So this winter I went in with a new outlook and I'm having a better experience because of it!

[@allison3177]

You are so right about having balance in life ❤

[@marysweda2097]

I just love love love starting my day watching your videos…watching the news can be a pretty depressing way to start the day.. with your beautiful videography.. your attitude and Svalbard as the backdrop.. it just is so uplifting!!! I’m a dog lover and just find so much joy in how you take care of your pup…. I live in the northeastern United States.. which can’t compare with your weather.. but it can be some dreary.. especially after the holidays… you are a true gem. I love your cabin..your lovely positive attitude… just such a positive in my life right now.. thanks you!!

[@cherlgolja5402]

I live in Northern California wine country 🍷, the weather is great all the time ! Having been raise in Wisconsin, I don’t miss the crazy cold -20 below ! However I only live 3 hours for Tahoe for skiing ⛷ and snow adventures! I love the snow ! Love your videos sweetie , your so pretty and talented ! Keep up the good work! Sending a big hug for Grim ❤🐕

[@stephaniematson4687]

Such a different world than my own on the Canadian west coast!!! So enjoyed this video...but particularly enjoyed the sound of the children laughing and playing...WHILE IN TOTAL DARKNESS!!! It would be cool to experience a few days in your kind of world! Thank you for sharing your tips!

[@BDXRDM]

Oooh yeh can’t wait to watch ! Love a Day in the Life especially regarding such a peculiar way of life ! Thank you so much to both of you for sharing with us a bit of your daily life !

[@kiragarvie]

A snowy night with a good moon can be almost as bright as day, and it is so beautiful!!

[@azulea9242]

I'm a bit of the opposite in that it's our brutal, hot, long summers that are hard on me, but I like your advice about keeping a good attitude about it and will try that approach this summer! Thanks for your enjoyable videos.

[@christinebutler7630]

I love the lights on Grim's harness!

[@syiacoup]

It's amazing to see your way of life and the humour and grace with which you live it, Cecelia. Greetings from North West England!

[@michellericci497]

I grew up on the Mississippi Gulf Coast in the U.S., and I live in Maryland now. I am not a winter girl, but have always exercised outside at least 2 days a week no matter what season so I can always be climatized to the weather. However, I did not do much more than that in the winter. So this year I made a game plan to do things outside the home. My spouse and I have a car show and a RV show we are going to. Plus we have bought tickets to two comedians and one musical. This gives us something to look forward to instead of counting the days till Spring.

[@theoldways1549]

Fascinating. I am moving from the Netherlands to Hamar in August. Truth be told I dread the short days. But I want to live in Norway and it is the only place I can follow the education that I have been wanting to do for 30 years. It is my dream. I will have to learn to live with the seasons, and the weathr.

[@susancarter9504]

Wow, I feel exactly the same way about coffee,,,,,it just makes me smile and savour the moment, it doesn’t affect me, I cud drink coffee and have a great nap time, if I wanted to,,,,,,,,,,,coffee just makes me happy no matter what the mood I’m in,,,,,,,,,,,love yr videos, stay safe

[@aprilp7744]

I love winter, but it's been a little different this year. It's cloudy everyday and it's been warmer than normal overall. It's even rained and hailed! But I really like how you're approaching winter this year and focusing on yourself. I want to try the breakfast you made and get more exercise. Thanks for the video, and greetings from Chicagoland!

[@Annieriannie]

Same in The Netherlands 😞 it just feels like a never ending fall...

[@IslandlifeIoW]

I have a winter project I look forward to which alters my winter perspective, and provides me with a new amazing build for the summer.

[@ErinHoskins]

I’ve worked from home for 7 years now, and while I mostly love it, the winter is hard (Iowa, USA). I have a treadmill that I just bought a desk attachment for so I can walk and work. I think you’ll love your walking pad. So far I mostly do things like e-mail, meetings, etc while walking at a slow pace. The rest of my day I either sit or stand at my desk, as I find more complex tasks a little harder to do while walking, even at just 2 mph. Even getting 1-2 hours a day in in with slow walking has made a big difference for my winter mood! I do exercise nearly every day too.

[@chrisbyard29]

That moon walk in the morning is beautiful, its almost like you don't need a headlamp. Thank you for sharing.

[@donnas411]

Keep taking care of yourself Cecelia! Time for yourself is very important as well as sleep. Keep up the good vibes- 😊

[@shirlw6075]

I love my morning coffee!!! Especially in the winter when the weather is cooler. Being born and raised in Texas I can count on one hand how many times we've enjoyed snow. There is something so magical about where you live and even how you live!! I always look forward to your videos....as always Thank you for sharing!!!

[@georgespencer3973]

Hiking or taking walks in moonlight is one of my favorite things to do. I agree, Cecilia, it is so calming and peaceful. The moonlit landscape would be the best part of polar night for me.

[@julieg_quebec-julesselivre8641]

You have been a great inspiration to me. Meaning that I try to enjoy winter more since I’ve been watching you! 😍

[@theresagodfrey2353]

This was a good one! I am such a woose when it comes to cold weather. We are getting 6 to 10 inches of snow tomorrow. Schools have already been canceled. Then I watch this and have to chuckle. Nothing stops in Svalbard.

[@LarisaBayaMomo]

Very interesting watching you live there, I couldn't do it. I love seeing blue skies and sunshine. Am Australian so sunshine is a big part of my life.

[@mikeyb2607]

Hi from Seattle, USA, Cecilia. Love watching. You answer questions I didn't know I had about life there. For now I only have one - what is that song you played during the Fresh Air chapter? I always like your music choices.

[@crucitacalvin7523]

loved the structure of this video and of your daily routine this time of year! glad to see you doing so much better this year 😁

[@fatinats]

The music is incredible with the views outdoors today! Absolutely sets the ambience. It really is beautiful.

[@tanyah.9131]

I love seeing the winter life there. Here in Seattle it's rainy and gets dark early, and I really love it! Most of the time haha! It's summer I struggle with, especially when it's much hotter these days than ever, and I feel anxious about the smoke from forest fires. I really need to travel somewhere cold when during those months!

[@samiab6038]

I love this! Watching your videos made me fall in love with the beauty of winter. ❤ Love from Canada

[@aliciazagelbaum8347]

I am a senior & retired but I get up at 6am each day have my coffee & a good breakfast! Read my books or go on my iPad & go food shopping later or my art or jewelry class once a week

[@jayblack3926]

This winter in Minnesota we’ve had a ton of snow sticking to all the branches. It’s so beautiful. We do get sun sparkling on the snow. I love it so, so much.

[@DanielleMarieW]

Your home looks lovely and inviting, and I think that’s awesome how you greet the day with a one hour and 10 minute walk! I moved to a small island on the west side of Canada, and my first few weeks felt a little bit lonely. I now have a routine that involves a lot more exercise, either running or going for Dips in the sea. These become longer swims in the summer. I also meet up with a friend for coffee, or FaceTime/phone friends and relatives in the afternoon. I think we become more productive at our job when we get up/get out regularly in the day. It rains a lot here in the winter but I’ve even learned to enjoy a rainy walk. Svalbard looks beautiful- I think the dark must make you appreciate hygge moments and spring when it comes ❤

[@WhiteTiger333]

If not for needing to drive in it, I would love everything about winter. One thing I like is shoveling snow. It's awesome exercise that I can do at my own pace. And the reward is a nice, clean driveway. It's a peaceful exercise, especially at night. Loved your meal at the end of a shell-less taco.

[@janisgriffin7278]

Hi Cecelia❣️Am just reinforcing your comments for everyone to exercise! I just turned 78 and have taken Pilates for 17 years and added on Kundalini Yoga once a week three years ago‼️. I have chronic back pain as to where I can o ly walk for ten minutes. I used to do miles of trail trekking my whole life plus very active in sports. Now I love to watch you do that- it helps!, Love your videos-♥️🥰💁🏻

[@leeoconnor123]

I agree, I have been working from home for almost 3 years now and i never got so lazy with exercise until this..I have to be so mindful to organise it and stick to it..at the detriment of some other things in my life but it's a balancing act, no time for everything in life each week. I loved this video, your walk reminded me of my times hiking in South Austria in snow and winds. I could so easily get used to snow more than wet rainy days in the UK where I live.

[@charlenechua6073]

Love this caption on the 5 tips

[@viktoriatravelvlog]

Thanks for the video Cecilia. I have to say I don't have an issue with the winter. I like this cosy time of the year being wrapped on the couch, reading a book and drinking hot beverage. I also like to meditate about places I visited during the year or make plans for the year ahead. I found that this type of winter reflection is something which grounds me and gives me more peace and strength for the coming months.

[@stacybrown6546]

Ironically, I enjoy the videos when you are going to the gym or into town to do some shopping. I know working out and shopping is twice as hard if you're filming, but I would enjoy even more. For example, I'd like to know what your workout routine is now and what your workout goals are. I just moved to a small town in Texas and am inspired by your work to explore my new surroundings with courage and joy. I love your approach to life-you are beautiful!

[@diyasengupta4885]

Your videos, attitude and love of winter life has inspired me and helped me embrace the winter season here in Ontario,Canada too! We don’t have polar night here but the days are short and kind of overcast for the most part. Winter during lockdowns and Covid (in the previous 2 years) was particularly tough. Your videos and your messages have truly helped! Stay awesome ✌️

[@BagznBirdz]

Okay that knäckebröd is perfect! My favorite combo - you always need to have pickled cucumber with leverpastej. ❤ Thank you for reminding me to get my vitamin D levels checked as I've been feeling a bit tired for a while (and not remembering to take my supplements). It's like you're losing months of your life if every winter you're basically hibernating because you're lacking vitamins.

[@marymagnano6726]

Aww ive just came across your channel and im in love as a Scottish person living in Scotland can be quit depressing with our dreary weather but we are so lucky we have beautiful scenery and places to visit its all about the right positive attitude which by god you have 😇 keep some for yourself while you create all this for us and if your ever in Scotland my door is open you and your husband and grim are just perfect souls 😊 with love and appreciation from Scotland xxxx💛💛💛💛