The Big Story Weekend Listen: You don't have to ditch the cold to thrive in the winter
Jan 18, 2026
Kari Leibowitz, a psychologist and author of How to Winter, shares insights on thriving during cold, dark months. She discusses seasonal affective disorder and how reframing winter can transform it from a burden into an opportunity. Leibowitz emphasizes the importance of getting outside, setting realistic goals, and embracing cozy Scandinavian practices. She also highlights how a positive mindset can enhance the benefits of natural light and support winter well-being, encouraging listeners to reframe late winter as a bridge to spring.
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Mindset Shapes Your Winter Experience
- Mindsets are lenses that shape how we interpret winter's cold and darkness.
- Shifting those core assumptions changes how winter affects motivation, mood, and behavior.
Reframe Winter And Do Season-Specific Acts
- Notice your automatic thoughts about winter and reframe them toward seasonal opportunities.
- Do specific winter-only activities you enjoy to reinforce a positive mindset.
From Jersey Shore To Tromsø Transformation
- Kari Leibowitz grew up in a summer-centric Jersey Shore culture that taught winter was depressing.
- Moving to Tromsø in northern Norway made her question that assumption and see winter's opportunities.
