Why January is anything but boring in Switzerland

Christmas is over. You had a good meal, maybe even went to the Netherlands, and now it's January. In the Netherlands, it's often the month where everyone gets back to their feet without the cozy lights and no real plans. But here in Switzerland? January is just the month you have to wait for.

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Fewer crowds than during the Christmas holidays, often better snow conditions and plenty of opportunities to be outside. The winter is in full swing, the mountains are covered in fresh snow. It is exactly the time to find new energy and look ahead.

Winter at its best

If there's one thing Switzerland is good at, it's winter. And January is the perfect proof of that. The ski resorts are running at full speed, the hiking trails have been prepared and you can see people outside everywhere. Skiing, cross-country skiing, sledding, winter hiking: you can't imagine it.

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But there's also something you may not have tried: snowshoeing.

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Snowshoeing, what is that exactly?

Snowshoeing is actually just walking, but with special snowshoes under your feet. It's a bit like tennis rackets, but for your feet. The advantage? You won't sink into the snow and you can reach places you wouldn't go with normal winter walks.

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The great thing is that it's surprisingly accessible. You don't have to be a seasoned mountaineer to enjoy it. Switzerland has over 1,200 kilometres of marked snowshoeing routes, so there's plenty to choose from for every level.

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You can rent snowshoes at stores such as Transa whether Bächli, but often you can also rent them directly at the ski resort itself. The daily rent is usually below 20 francs.

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A few things to keep in mind: always be well informed before you set out. Check whether a route is suitable for snowshoes and whether there is an avalanche risk. In areas such as Melchsee-Frutt for example, there are clear snowshoeing routes where you can walk safely. But always stay alert and check the conditions before you leave.

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Our weekend in Grindelwald

January is also marked by our biggest community event of this winter: the Takeoff weekend in Grindelwald. With a group of 27 physiotherapists, we will spend a weekend there enjoying everything the mountains have to offer.

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Skiing, sledding, cross-country skiing, hiking, and most importantly, being together. That's what it's all about.

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Registrations for this event have now closed, but that does not mean that you are further out of it. Do you want to stay up to date with these kinds of weekends and other activities in the future? In particular, keep the Takeoff community WhatsApp group keep an eye on. That's where we'll be the first to share new plans and events.

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Because that is perhaps the best thing about working as a physiotherapist in Switzerland: you are not alone. You always have people around you who are going through the same things, have the same challenges and want to have the same adventures.

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January as a reset month

In addition to all the time being outside, January is also a month of standing still. No good intentions pressure, but just check: how are you doing your job? How do you feel here? What do you need in the coming months?

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For many physical therapists, January is a time to find structure again. Pick up the rhythm in work, take sports seriously again, make plans for leisure or vacations. You may also notice that homesickness can be a bit stronger, especially in this month. That is normal. The holidays are over, the cozy feeling of home is gone for a while.

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That's why it's good to actively choose things that give you energy. Whether that's spending time outside, interacting with others or just relaxing: it's all allowed. Everyone has their own way of getting through January, and it's fine the way it is.

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If you find yourself struggling or just want to catch up with other physios who have taken the same step, know that you are always welcome to join our community. There you will always find someone who understands what you are going through. And sometimes that alone is enough.

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Lastly

January doesn't have to be a boring gap month. In Switzerland, on the contrary, it is a period of winter, movement and connection. Whether you're out in the snow, part of a community event, or just finding your way around, everything is good.

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Looking forward to a happy new year. Together.

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Want to know more about working and living as a physio in Switzerland?
Check how we help you or take contact with us. We are happy to help you out.

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