Explore how people in the coldest places thrive in winter by adopting a positive mindset. Health psychologist Dr. Kari Leibowitz shares insights from Norway, highlighting cultural adaptations and practical strategies like saunas and cold plunges. The discussion delves into overcoming the winter blues with personal stories and playful approaches. Listeners join in to brainstorm uplifting catchphrases, aiming to rebrand winter as a season of joy rather than dread.
Adopting a positive mindset towards winter can help individuals thrive by focusing on enjoyable aspects rather than dreading the season.
Implementing specific winter activities like saunas and cold plunges can significantly enhance the winter experience and foster joy.
Deep dives
Embracing a Positive Wintermindset
A positive wintertime mindset is essential for thriving during the colder seasons. This mindset involves adapting to the winter environment rather than resisting it, recognizing the differences in energy levels, and making intentional changes to routines and activities. For example, those living in extreme winter conditions, like Northern Norway, often develop strategies to embrace the season, leading to lower rates of seasonal affective disorder compared to milder climates. This adaptability fosters a culture that celebrates winter rather than endure it, shifting the overall approach to the season.
Coping Strategies and Seasonal Rituals
Adopting specific coping strategies can significantly enhance the winter experience. Many individuals draw inspiration from Nordic lifestyles, incorporating activities like sauna visits and cold plunges, which are unique to winter. Small, comforting rituals, such as enjoying a warm cup of tea while watching seasonal shows, can also provide joy during the dreary season. Engaging in these intentional practices transforms winter from a period of discomfort to an opportunity for sensory pleasure and anticipation.
Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is often mischaracterized, leading to misunderstandings about its impact on individuals. Unlike common perceptions of mild winter blues, SAD is a subtype of clinical depression, requiring significant disruption to daily life and functioning. The natural response of feeling more tired or unmotivated during winter is common and should not be automatically labeled as depression. Acknowledging these seasonal changes can foster a more humane understanding of how people respond to winter, encouraging adaptations that honor our natural rhythms.
Health psychologist Dr. Kari Leibowitz traveled to some of the coldest, darkest places on earth to learn how people there don’t just survive, but thrive in winter. She says that one of the key ingredients is adopting a positive wintertime mindset by focusing on and celebrating the good parts of winter.
Do you think “winter doldrums” needs a positive rebrand? Let us know what you would call the winter experience instead by leaving us a voicemail at 1-646-767-6532.
Transcripts for each segment will be available after the show airs on sciencefriday.com.