Speaking of Psychology
Learning to embrace winter, with Kari Leibowitz, PhD
Dec 4, 2024
Kari Leibowitz, a health psychologist and author of "How to Winter," dives into the psychology of winter's embrace. She discusses the Scandinavian mindset that transforms cold, dark months into opportunities for coziness and beauty. By sharing insights from Tromsø, Norway, she illustrates how outdoor activities can enhance mood and appreciation for winter's uniqueness. Leibowitz also tackles seasonal affective disorder, advocating for a cultural shift that embraces winter's rhythms rather than fearing them, highlighting the benefits of a positive winter mindset.
41:32
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Quick takeaways
- Embracing winter with a positive mindset allows individuals to appreciate the season's unique beauty and cultural activities instead of dreading it.
- Engaging in outdoor activities during winter significantly boosts mental health, helping individuals combat negative feelings and foster resilience against the cold.
Deep dives
Understanding Winter in Tromsø
Tromsø, located over 200 miles north of the Arctic Circle, experiences extreme variations in daylight, including two months of polar night during the winter. Despite the cold and darkness, many residents find beauty and magic in this time, interpreting it as peaceful and cozy rather than oppressive. Dr. Kari Leibowitz observed that, unlike her previous apprehensions about winter, locals embrace the polar night and look forward to seasonal activities such as skiing and cultural festivals. The contrasting mindset highlights how perception can shape emotional responses to winter conditions, revealing a cultural appreciation for the unique elements of life in such extreme climates.
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