Embracing the Dark Beauty of Winter: How to Shift Your Mindset for a Cozier Season
As the polar vortex grips much of North America, it's easy to feel like hibernating until spring arrives. But what if you could find joy in the cold, dark days ahead? For psychologist Kari Leibowitz, author of "How to Winter: Harness Your Mindset to Thrive on Cold, Dark or Difficult Days," intentionally embracing winter is key to making it a more enjoyable season.
Leibowitz's transformation came after studying the wintertime mindset in northern Norway. The country's residents seem to thrive in the darkness, viewing the cold, snowy months as a time for coziness and rest. In contrast to many Americans who struggle with SAD (seasonal affective disorder) or winter blues, people in Tromsø focus on the opportunities rather than the challenges of winter.
One reason for this shift is that many Arctic cultures prioritize social connections during the winter months, when cold temperatures make outdoor activities more difficult. This communal approach to winter helps combat feelings of isolation and loneliness that often come with shorter days.
However, Leibowitz believes that our modern society's emphasis on constant productivity and energy can actually exacerbate these feelings. By trying to be productive year-round, we may feel like we're failing if we can't maintain the same level of motivation in the winter.
Instead, Leibowitz suggests embracing personal or natural seasons for fallowness and rest. This might mean setting aside time each day to relax, read a book, or take a warm bath – activities that help us recharge our batteries.
One simple yet powerful ritual that can help shift your mindset is lighting candles or soft lamps instead of bright overhead lights. In Nordic cultures, this cozy approach to winter is common, and it can create a sense of peace and tranquility in the home.
Of course, this isn't about pretending everything will magically be okay just because you light some candles. Rather, it's about acknowledging that winter has its own unique beauty – from the soft blue light that filters through the darkness to the opportunity for rest and rejuvenation.
So this winter, try embracing the quiet, dark days ahead with a newfound sense of curiosity and wonder. Take time to slow down, connect with nature, and find joy in the simple things. You might just discover that the polar night has its own special magic – one that awaits you in the soft glow of candles and the stillness of winter's darkness.
As the polar vortex grips much of North America, it's easy to feel like hibernating until spring arrives. But what if you could find joy in the cold, dark days ahead? For psychologist Kari Leibowitz, author of "How to Winter: Harness Your Mindset to Thrive on Cold, Dark or Difficult Days," intentionally embracing winter is key to making it a more enjoyable season.
Leibowitz's transformation came after studying the wintertime mindset in northern Norway. The country's residents seem to thrive in the darkness, viewing the cold, snowy months as a time for coziness and rest. In contrast to many Americans who struggle with SAD (seasonal affective disorder) or winter blues, people in Tromsø focus on the opportunities rather than the challenges of winter.
One reason for this shift is that many Arctic cultures prioritize social connections during the winter months, when cold temperatures make outdoor activities more difficult. This communal approach to winter helps combat feelings of isolation and loneliness that often come with shorter days.
However, Leibowitz believes that our modern society's emphasis on constant productivity and energy can actually exacerbate these feelings. By trying to be productive year-round, we may feel like we're failing if we can't maintain the same level of motivation in the winter.
Instead, Leibowitz suggests embracing personal or natural seasons for fallowness and rest. This might mean setting aside time each day to relax, read a book, or take a warm bath – activities that help us recharge our batteries.
One simple yet powerful ritual that can help shift your mindset is lighting candles or soft lamps instead of bright overhead lights. In Nordic cultures, this cozy approach to winter is common, and it can create a sense of peace and tranquility in the home.
Of course, this isn't about pretending everything will magically be okay just because you light some candles. Rather, it's about acknowledging that winter has its own unique beauty – from the soft blue light that filters through the darkness to the opportunity for rest and rejuvenation.
So this winter, try embracing the quiet, dark days ahead with a newfound sense of curiosity and wonder. Take time to slow down, connect with nature, and find joy in the simple things. You might just discover that the polar night has its own special magic – one that awaits you in the soft glow of candles and the stillness of winter's darkness.
. I mean, let's be real, some people are gonna feel miserable during the cold and dark months regardless of how cozy we make it. And yeah, social connections are key, but what about those who are literally stuck at home with no way to leave due to weather conditions? It's not all sunshine and rainbows, folks 
. I'm more of a "let's focus on the things we can control" kinda person rather than making a big deal out of winter being beautiful or whatever 
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We should totally prioritize snuggling up with a good book, hot cocoa, or even just binge-watching our fave shows 
It's time to shift our mindset and focus on all the little things that make life special during this time. Lighting candles or soft lamps is such a great idea - it creates this warm and fuzzy feeling in the home 
What are some of your favorite winter activities?
like isn't it just a natural part of the year? can't we just chill (literally) for a bit instead of expecting to be all peppy and productive 24/7? i feel like trying to cram a whole year into one season is exhausting 
. anyway, if lighting some candles can make me feel less anxious about the dark days ahead 
, then count me in!
. On one hand, there's something so cozy about curling up with a good book and a warm cup of tea while the snow falls outside (or in my case, just stares at me blankly through the window 
.
). The thing is, though, our modern society's always trying to push us into this constant productivity mode, and that can make the whole "embracing the darkness" thing feel super overwhelming 
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u know how they always say u should eat more veggies? well idk about that but have u ever thought about trying some weird fermented foods like kimchi or sauerkraut? my fave! i put it on my pizza and it's literally the best thing since sliced bread 
anyway, back to winter... i was just thinking about how much i love snuggling up with a good book and a cuppa tea by the window watching the snowfall outside 
that's like, the ultimate cozy season! anyway, apparently in northern norway they prioritize social connections during winter coziness is key 
and i'm all about that 
. but what really got me was that psychologist kari leibowitz says our modern society's productivity obsession can actually make us feel more drained in the winter 
so yeah, let's all just take a cue from those norwegians and find joy in the quiet darkness 
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. Maybe instead of trying to force ourselves to be productive year-round, we should focus on creating space for rest and relaxation? It's all about finding balance, right?
or thanksgiving 
but like, all year round! i mean, why can't our homes be warm and snug 24/7 instead of waiting for some holiday to start decorating the candles 
and dimming the lights?