If you haven’t lived in a rainy city before, you might be worried about moving to an entirely new climate. Life in the wet part of the country is the same as anywhere else, but with more umbrellas, rain shoes, and hot beverages. With a little planning and preparation, you can stay dry and make the most of your new home.
Invest in Waterproof Clothes and Shoes
In cities where it rains, it rains a lot, which makes waterproof clothing an essential wardrobe investment. Avoid soft clothes meant to keep you warm in the snow, like wool coats and scarves; they’ll just get soggy when the next rainstorm hits. Instead, look for a good rain jacket and a pair of non-slip, watertight boots that you can wear both indoors and outdoors. Consider spending up to get quality gear; after all, you’ll be wearing it year round.
Waterproof Your Home
Structural dampness is a home maintenance issue only found in rainy or humid climates; the water gets into your walls, and takes forever to dry out. Start by checking your foundation for cracks in the concrete or other reasons water may be getting in. You should also make sure your gutters are cleaned out and in working condition, so they can divert water away from your home. Finally, waterproof exterior walls with a waterproofing paint or coating, and remember to re-apply it on a regular basis.
Keep Spirits High
Dripping water and lack of sunlight can be real mood dampeners. If you find yourself inexplicably sad after the move, it might be because of the weather. To counter this, try starting your morning with a nice moment, like a hot cup of coffee or a few minutes of meditation. You may also consider investing in a light therapy box, intended to combat Seasonal Affect Disorder, or SAD. These boxes expose the user to 10,000 lux of light, imitating the feeling of going outside on a sunny day. Finally, if self-care doesn’t seem to shake your depression, don’t be afraid to see a therapist, who will be able to offer more solutions.
Enjoy the Outdoors
Spending time outside is a great way to lift your spirits, even if it’s still raining. Many residents of rainy cities enjoy going for walks or runs in gloomy weather. During breaks in the clouds, make sure to take the opportunity to get out and breathe in the fresh air; your mood will be lifted and you’ll be able to enjoy all the greenery created by a rainy climate.
Life in a rainy city is an experience of its own, with benefits (and drawbacks) that you won’t find anywhere else. Although the rain might be a little hard to deal with, the environment it creates can be spectacular. From foggy landscapes to lush gardens to rainbows, there will be plenty to enjoy about your new home.