Dealing with Darkness in Alaska
Hello, my fellow Alaskans—it's that time of year again. The darkness has settled in, the ice is everywhere (at least where I live), and we’re officially in the deepest stretch of winter. We're still losing daylight, and many of us are counting down the minutes until the sun starts its slow return.
This season brings familiar rhythms: feeling tired all the time, racing home before dark because it feels so late, and slipping into pajamas far earlier than we’ll ever admit. We exercise less, snack more, and sometimes fall into that winter slump we know all too well. So the question becomes: how do we manage this yearly cycle without letting it manage us?
Lean Into the Darkness Instead of Fighting It
The darkness comes every year—it’s part of the Alaskan rhythm. Instead of resisting it, what if we leaned into it?
This year, I started doing night walks. Of course, safety first: wear lights, a reflector, ice cleats, and assess your surroundings for traffic and wildlife. But these night walks have given me something unexpected—movement, fresh air, and a new appreciation for winter beauty after sunset. There’s something magical about the quiet glow of the moonlight.
What might leaning in look like for you?
Make a Winter Plan
Every winter, I encourage my clients to have a plan—something intentional to help navigate the season.
For the Outdoor Enthusiasts
If you’re someone who loves skiing, snowboarding, or snowmachining, you’re already ahead of the game. These activities not only keep you active but also build community and offer a sense of adventure that only winter can bring. Leaning into winter in this way makes the season feel shorter, brighter, and more meaningful.
For the Indoor Seekers
If the cold isn’t your thing, winter brings its own wave of indoor community events.
I usually find them on Facebook’s Events page—there’s almost always a weekend market where you can support local entrepreneurs. The Glenn Massay Theater, Alaska Center for the Performing Arts, and Anchorage Concert Association also host shows, musicals, and performances throughout the season.
Join their social media pages so you don’t miss out; having something to look forward to makes a huge difference in how we feel during these darker months.
A Season of Reset and Renewal
Nature uses this time to rest, reset, and rejuvenate—maybe we can, too. This season might be your chance to turn inward: learn something new, pick up a neglected hobby, or finally work on a change you’ve been wanting to make. Winter can be a natural invitation to slow down and find clarity.
Choose Something Different This Year
The darkness is nothing new—we negotiate it every single year. But as the saying goes, “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.”
Maybe this is the year to try something different. Lean in. Explore. Rest. Reset. Connect. Find a new rhythm in an old season.
We can’t control the darkness—but we can choose how we move through it.
Courtney Beebe is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Alaska
Disclaimer: The content provided in this blog is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional therapy, medical advice, or diagnosis. Mind Body Connection, LLC does not assume any liability for the information discussed herein. We encourage you to seek the guidance of a qualified mental health professional or medical expert for personal concerns or specific guidance. Your well-being is important, and we empower you to make informed decisions regarding your health.
