This year, I have been feeling some dread at the thought of winter setting in. Everything seems much more difficult, with the snowblowing, shoveling, icy roads, and need for multiple layers to leave …
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This year, I have been feeling some dread at the thought of winter setting in. Everything seems much more difficult, with the snowblowing, shoveling, icy roads, and need for multiple layers to leave the house. I haven’t always felt that way, though, and I wanted to focus more on all the things I love about the coldest time of the year.
I chose to read “How to Winter: Harness Your Mindset to Thrive on Cold, Dark, or Difficult Days” by Kari Leibowitz, PhD, for some inspiration on turning the winter doldrums into winter fun.
One of the themes that came up over and over in “How to Winter” was having a good mindset about the season. If we expect winter to be awful, it will be, but if we have a positive mindset, we leave room to notice things that could be enjoyed about the season. A strategy for cultivating a positive mindset is not to complain.
When we say things like “Winter is so dreary!” we believe our own words. Instead, we can say something positive like “The air is so fresh and brisk!” I know which I would rather believe! Romanticizing the winter experience can change our whole outlook.
In places that are above the Arctic Circle, people do not dread, and even look forward to winter because they make the time special. They have festivals and traditions throughout winter, both in- and outside. They also make their homes and restaurants extra cozy (also known as hygge in Danish), by using candles, soft lighting, and warm temperatures.
When winter seems to go on and on, it’s essential that we are able to get outside. The best way to do this comfortably is to dress for the temperature. It is amazing how much difference this makes in my enjoyment of the season. Then, we are able to go about our day-to-day business and also try some fun outdoor pursuits.
One of the first activities suggested in “How to Winter” is something we are lucky to have in our area: bathing in hot springs. The author also talks about cold water swimming, but maybe I’ll save that for next year.
This book has motivated me to enjoy this winter to the fullest. If you need some winter inspiration, check this book out at the Alpine, Cokeville, and Star Valley branch libraries.