Tips to Survive and Actually enjoy the Winter in Sweden

Winter is here, and with it come long, dark days that can sometimes feel heavy. But it doesn’t all have to be gray: with small routines and mindful details, we can transform the season into a time of warmth, creativity, and connection.

Thanks to the recommendations of my Zumba Mamacitas both in Tullinge and Fridhemsplan and the Latinas x Europa y Suecia community, I put together this list of the best tips to make autumn feel lighter and more joyful.

✨ 1.  Make a winter wish list

Write down all the activities you’d like to do: courses, workshops, concerts, walks.👉 And don’t forget to add my Zumba classes and community activities to your list!If you don’t remember the dates, you can always check the section of Upcoming Classes or Events section on my website.

☕️💃 2. Schedule a fika with friends (active fika counts too!)

In Sweden, fika is much more than having coffee: it’s a mindful pause to connect and recharge. That moment can be:

• A warm cup of coffee with laughter,

• An evening walk, or even

• a Zumba class together.

“When I feel low on energy, planning a fika with friends brings me back to life” – Rowena, a Zumba Mamacita in Fridhemsplan .The key is not to leave it to chance: schedule it, whether it’s around the table of Mon Village Caio or on the dance floor.

Rowena and me at Mon Village Caio

💡 3. Invest in a sun lamp

Tip from my dearest Tanja, another amazing Zumba Mamacita from Fridhemsplan: “The sun lamp completely changed my mood last winter. It really works!”

I have never used a sun lamp

💊 4. Take your vitamins

Vitamin D is essential during the dark season, especially when you move from a sunny continent to a country with long periods of low light.

My dear friend and entrepreneur Fernanda Reyes, who works with Zinzino, always reminds me:“The correct dosage depends on your real vitamin levels.” And she’s right! Zinzino offers an easy-at-home Vitamin D test that measures your actual levels, so you can take your personalized daily dosage safely — a total mood-saver in winter. Vitamin D supports your immune system, bones, and hormones.

Remember: supplements work best when guided by real data and, of course, medical advice.If you need info or recommendations, you can always contact Fer on Instagram: @behealthy_withfer.

☕️🍵 5. Aromatic coffee or comforting tea

A very aromatic and good coffee or tea ca feel like your favorite autumn hugs says my dear two Mamacitas Jenny and Kristy.

In my case, I have chosen as a Christmas gift for both my husband and me to treat ourselves with the coffee advent calendar from Nabo.

Picture by NaboAB

🌈 6. Wear cheerful colors

Put away the all-black wardrobe for a while and dare to wear bright colors — or mix them playfully!

Colors that make you smile can instantly lift your mood.And this applies not only to work outfits… but also to workout outfits.(One idea: check out Zumba Wear!)

Life is brighter when we move in color!

🚶‍♀️ 7. Lunch walks when the weather let you

Tip from Lorena Sanabria, creator, entrepreneur and consult: “Walking during lunch helps me appreciate the silence and the beauty of trees.”

🎬 8. Movies or Tv programs that warm your heart

On dark days, nothing beats a movie/ tv fika 🍿

Grab a tea, cozy blankets, and watch something that makes you feel good.(This is one of my favorite activities too! – says my dear Zumba Mamacita Jenny) Some of my favorites:

• Romantic comedies (for laughter and swooning 💕). In my case, Ill enjoy Emily in Paris/ Rome this December.

• Mystery comedies (fun and light, with a twist)

• Dance movies (because movement spreads joy!)

• True stories and inspiring films (perfect for motivation on gray days)

🥗 9. Colorful food

Just like your wardrobe, your plate deserves color.

This is where my dear friend and nutrition specialist Carolina from Postpartum Mama comes in. She always says:“Food is information. What you eat affects how you feel.”

So this season, choose:

✅ seasonal fruits

✅ vegetables of all colors

✅ whole foods

✅ fewer processed meals

✅ warm soups, stews, and nourishing bowls

Eat vibrant — think of your plate as a rainbow.

🕯️🔥 10. Cozy atmosphere at home

Buy scented candles that transform your space with soft light and soothing aroma.And if you don’t have a fireplace, put on a virtual fire video on YouTube — instant cozy vibes!

🏋️‍♀️💃 11. Move with joy

Movement is medicine.

This is where Zumba comes in — not just exercise, but a celebration of life, energy, and community.

This season is almost over, but we’ll be back in January!I'll be hosting special classes, parties, and dance workshops to keep spirits high and bodies warm.If you want a boost of energy and joy… join us! 💖

In short…

Winter may be dark, yes — but it can also be a time to reconnect with yourself, your friends, and your passions.

It’s not just about “surviving” the season.It’s about creating small rituals that make you feel alive, grounded, and warm.

Warm drinks, warm colors, warm hearts.