Psychologists assert that winter can be a wonderful season if approached with the right mindset. A Stanford University graduate student explained to The Conversation why Norwegians eagerly await winter, as reported by Tengri Life.
Stanford psychologist Kari Leibowitz, who lived in Tromsø, a small town in northern Norway where polar nights prevail in winter, shared secrets on how to truly enjoy the cold and dark season.
"In Norway, winter is seen as something to be enjoyed, not something to endure," she states.
Three strategies to avoid winter blues:
Change your mindset
The cold months are often referred to as the "SAD season" — when people experience affective disorders related to emotional disruptions. Feelings of melancholy, sadness, and depressive sensations can envelop many from late October to late February. Importantly, this often happens due to an incorrect attitude towards winter.
"It's worth shifting your mindset, starting to plan enjoyable activities for this time (even just trips to the movies, as in summer, one doesn't feel like sitting in a dark theater), thinking about what will bring you joy, creating coziness, stocking up on various types of tea, and gathering candles," writes Leibowitz.
Focus on positive activities
To make winter a special time for yourself, play with the darkness — turn off the bright, cold lights and light up twinkling fairy lights, lamps, and candles to create a cozy atmosphere. Celebrate any occasion, prepare your favorite dishes, and host Sunday dinners with friends.
For winter, the psychologist suggests engaging in low-arousal positive activities that relax us and bring happiness, such as painting, doing puzzles, knitting, reading, and taking leisurely walks.
Creating rituals around such activities makes this season something to look forward to.
Get outside more
There is no such thing as bad weather — what matters is having the right gear and the proper approach to layering clothing. Then you can go for a walk in any weather.
But before you do, think about how you plan to feel during it. Analyze the sensations you experience while walking and — importantly — afterward. You may find that you enjoy walking in winter much more than you previously thought.
Other proven ways to beat winter blues
If you wake up and it’s still dark outside, immediately turn on bright lights at maximum — all that you have available. In 30 minutes, you'll feel more awake. If you rely on a night light, like in a dark cave, you won't shake off the sleepy haze until noon.
Try to get 7-8 hours of sleep at night and avoid spending too much time on gadgets before bedtime. Physical exercise greatly boosts your mood. If it's boring just to move your legs, turn on some upbeat music and dance energetically however you like.
Engage with people who support and understand you — the more often, the better. Share your feelings with them. If you don’t have anyone, consider reaching out to a psychologist.