With winter comes an opportunity to enjoy the sun and partake in a variety of seasonal outdoor activities.
But enjoying winter sun comes with a great responsibility to stay safe and informed.
That’s why we have compiled 10 must-know facts about enjoying winter sun. From types of winter sun activities to winter sun safety tips.
Read on and learn all you need to know about enjoying winter sun!
Types of Winter Sun
When planning for a winter sun getaway, it is important to understand the different types of winter sun destinations.
Each type of winter sun destination offers its own set of benefits and activities that can make your vacation memorable.
Here are 10 facts to know about enjoying winter sun:
1. Tropical Climates:
These locations offer a warm climate year-round, so they’re ideal for winter sun.
Popular tropical winter sun destinations include the Caribbean, Hawaii, Central America, and Southeast Asia.
2. Mediterranean Climates:
These destinations provide milder winters and offer beach-goers plenty of sunshine.
Popular Mediterranean winter sun destinations include Spain, Greece, Italy, and Croatia.
3. Desert Climates:
Although not popular destinations for winter sun, these areas do offer plenty of sunshine due to their dry climate.
Popular desert winter sun destinations include Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico.
4. Mountain Climates:
These locations are ideal for winter sun seekers who want to enjoy snow-covered mountains and winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
Popular mountain winter sun destinations include Austria, Switzerland, and Japan.
5. Arctic Climates:
These locations offer some of the most extreme winter sun experiences in the world, due to their extreme cold temperatures.
Popular Arctic winter sun destinations include Alaska, Canada, and Scandinavia.
6. Coastal Climates:
These locations offer milder temperatures and plenty of sunshine during the winter months.
Popular coastal winter sun destinations include California, Oregon, and Florida.
7. Tropical Islands:
These locations offer plenty of sunshine during the winter months and provide summer-like experiences.
Popular tropical island winter sun destinations include the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and the Bahamas.
8. European Cities:
These locations are popular winter sun destinations as they typically offer milder temperatures and plenty of sunshine.
Popular European cities for winter sun include London, Paris, and Madrid.
9. Tropical Beaches:
These locations are ideal for those seeking plenty of sunshine and soothing waves.
Popular tropical beach winter sun destinations include Mexico, Belize, and the Dominican Republic.
10. Safari Destinations:
These locations are ideal for those looking to enjoy plenty of sunshine while on an African safari.
Popular safari winter sun destinations include Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa.
Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-country skiing is a fun and accessible winter activity that allows people of all ages to enjoy winter sun.
From warming up with a casual ski around the neighborhood to a full day of skiing at the ski resort, cross-country skiing can provide a great way to get out and enjoy winter weather and reap the many benefits of physical activity.
Here are 10 facts to help you get started and make the most out of your experience of cross-country skiing:
1. Cross-country skiing requires minimal equipment; you only need a pair of skis and poles.
Poles help to propel you forward, and the length should be chosen according to your height.
2. Cross-country skiing is a low-impact workout. It places less strain on muscles and joints than running or walking and can help to strengthen and tone muscles as well as improve coordination and balance.
3. Cross-country skis come in different shapes and sizes depending on the terrain you will be skiing on.
Skiing on flat terrain requires skis with more width, while more narrow skis are better-suited for skiing on more difficult terrain with more hills.
4. Cross-country skiing is a cardiovascular exercise and therefore burning calories is an important benefit. Depending on the intensity of your skiing, you can burn up to 500 calories per hour.
5. Investing in a good pair of boots and bindings is important.
Boots should be comfortable and fit snugly while bindings should provide plenty of flexibility and control.
6. To maximize your skiing experience, proper clothing is essential. Choose layers of clothing that regulates temperature and moisture and avoids overheating.
7. Don’t forget your sunscreen. The sun reflects off the snow, making it even more important to use sunscreen when skiing.
8. Warm up before skiing. A few simple stretching exercises can help prevent muscle and joint injuries.
9. Cross-country skiing requires technique and practice. Focus on mastering the basic techniques before taking on more difficult terrain.
10. Be mindful of the environment and respect nature while skiing. Always follow the rules set by your resort and stick to designated trails to avoid disturbing wildlife.
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is becoming increasingly popular as a winter activity, allowing people to enjoy the winter sun while exploring the great outdoors.
Whether you’re a seasoned snowshoer or just starting out, there are many important facts to know about snowshoeing.
Here are 10 facts to know about enjoying winter sun through snowshoeing.
1. Snowshoes are an ancient way of transportation. Snowshoes have been used for centuries, with the earliest known examples dating back to over 4000 years ago.
They were used for travel in snowy environments, making it possible for people to cover large distances over snow-covered terrain.
2. Snowshoeing is a great way to get exercise. Snowshoeing is an aerobic activity that uses multiple muscle groups, including your arms, legs and core.
This makes it a great way to burn calories and stay active during winter months.
3. You don’t need to be in great shape to snowshoe. Snowshoeing is suitable for people of most fitness levels.
It’s a relatively low-impact activity, and you can go as slow or as fast as you like.
4. Snowshoes are designed to distribute your weight.
Snowshoes are designed with an arch-shape and wide, flat base, which helps to distribute your weight over a larger surface area. This helps to prevent sinking into the snow.
5. You don’t need special clothing or equipment. You don’t need to buy any special clothing or equipment for snowshoeing.
However, you should wear warm, waterproof layers, as well as gloves and a hat, to ensure you’re warm and comfortable.
6. You can snowshoe anywhere there is snow. Snowshoeing can take place almost anywhere there is snow.
This includes trails, public parks, backcountry and even your backyard.
7. Snowshoes come in different sizes and shapes. Snowshoes come in different sizes and shapes to accommodate different terrains and user weights.
Make sure to buy the right size and shape for you and your intended activities.
8. Snowshoeing is a safe activity. Snowshoeing is generally a very safe activity.
However, it’s important to be aware of potential hazards, such as avalanches, and to take the necessary safety precautions.
9. Snowshoeing can be enjoyed alone or with friends. Snowshoeing can be an enjoyable activity to do with friends and family.
It’s also a great way to explore nature and get some fresh air.
10. Snowshoeing is a great way to enjoy winter sun. Snowshoeing is a great way to take advantage of the winter sun and enjoy the outdoors. So why not give it a try!
Winter Sun Safety Tips
It is important to practice sun safety when enjoying winter sun to ensure maximum protection and enjoyment during your outdoor activities.
Here are 10 must-know facts about protecting your skin during winter sun exposure:
1. Stay Hydrated:
Keeping your body hydrated is important, especially in the cold winter weather.
Bring water or other beverages outdoors to prevent dehydration and to help your body regulate its temperature.
2. Wear Sunscreen:
Sunscreen is still necessary even in the wintertime.
Choose a higher SPF and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Remember to reapply frequently and to cover any exposed areas.
3. Wear Sun-Protective Clothing:
Wear protective clothing such as wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants.
If you are planning to stay in the sun for an extended period of time, be sure to wear lightweight, sun-protective clothing.
4. Avoid Peak Sun Hours:
The sun’s intensity is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. To reduce your risk of sunburns, avoid spending long periods of time in direct sunlight during these hours.
5. Avoid Sunburns:
If you do get sunburned, seek medical help right away.
Immediately after sunburn, use cool compresses and take over-the-counter pain medications to reduce the pain and swelling associated with the burn.
6. Be Aware of Snow’s Reflective Properties:
Snow reflects up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays, making it important to use additional protection when playing or working in snow. Wear sunglasses and other protective gear as necessary.
7. Apply Lip Balm:
Cold, dry winter air can be damaging to the delicate skin on your lips.
Be sure to apply a lip balm with an SPF of at least 15 to protect your lips from the sun’s rays.
8. Protect Your Eyes:
UV rays can be damaging to your eyes, so it is important to protect them during winter sun exposure.
Invest in a pair of UV-blocking sunglasses to ensure your eyes stay safe.
9. Avoid Tanning Beds:
Tanning beds can be just as damaging to your skin as the sun’s rays, so be sure to avoid them.
10. Check for UV Index:
Check your local UV index before heading outdoors and adjust your sun safety plan accordingly.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a vital part of enjoying the winter sun in a safe, responsible way.
To make the most of winter sunshine, it’s important to be aware of the various types of sunscreens, how often to apply them, and their proper use.
Let’s take a look at 10 facts you should know about sunscreen and sun protection:
1. Sunscreens are not one-size-fits-all – Different skin types and activities require different sunscreens with varying sun protection factor (SPF) ratings.
The higher the SPF, the higher the protection, but lighter, non-greasy moisturizers are more suitable for everyday use.
2. Sunscreen should be applied at least 30 minutes before going out – Applying sunscreen at least 30 minutes before sun exposure allows time for the product to be properly absorbed and provide full protection.
3. Sunscreens should be reapplied every two hours – After two hours, sunscreen must be reapplied to ensure optimal protection.
Even when staying indoors, such as in an office or during a walk in the park, sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours.
4. Spend time in the shade – To avoid overexposure to the sun, spend time in the shade during peak sun hours (usually 10 am-4 pm).
5. Wear protective clothing and accessories – Hats, sunglasses, and long sleeved shirts can provide added protection from UV rays and should be worn during sun exposure.
6. Wear non-irritating sunscreen – Some sunscreens can cause skin irritation due to their heavy or perfumed ingredients.
Read ingredients before application and try out a sample to make sure your skin can tolerate it.
7. Don’t forget to protect your lips – Specialized lip balms with SPF ratings prevent cold sores, chapping and other damage associated with direct sun exposure.
8. Don’t underestimate the power of winter sun – UV rays can still cause sunburns in winter, even though the weather is colder. Therefore, sunscreen should still be applied.
9. Learn the difference between UVA and UVB rays – UVA rays can cause premature aging and wrinkles, while UVB rays cause sunburns. Sunscreens protect against both.
10. Avoid sunscreens with high levels of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide – These ingredients can cause skin irritation and should be avoided.
Enjoying Winter Sun health care
Last modified: February 8, 2023
