Embrace Winter Like the Norwegians

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I’m not a “Game of Thrones” fan, but winter is coming. In fact, I’d say it’s solidly here.

How many of you scrambled like I did when we got that October snowfall to find kids’ boots and snow pants? Or struggled to shovel that wet, heavy snow from this weekend? Not fun! But the snow is here, and it’s likely not going anywhere for a while.

Here’s the beautiful thing: We have a choice in how we deal with it.

Many of us saw the Facebook meme that says whether we hate the snow or find joy in the snow, we’ll have the same amount of snow – just a different amount of joy. This theory, while lovely, can be difficult to put into practice when we have an inch of ice on our windshields or our driveways double as skating rinks. But if there is a time to shift our focus and adopt a positive mindset for the wintry months to come, that time would be now.

“Koselig” = coziness
One of my closest mom friends shared an article that talked about the residents of northern Norway, whom one would assume would have high rates of seasonal depression. Despite not seeing the sun from late November through January, the residents of these northern communities embrace winter and view it as a celebration, not a drudgery.

The article goes on to say that Norwegians look forward to cross-country skiing, celebrating the holidays and marveling at the beauty of winter. The Norwegian word koselig, or coziness, speaks to the practice of snuggling under blankets, lighting scented candles and wrapping their hands around a steaming mug of their favorite hot beverage. They are the experts; perhaps we can do the same?

Changing Your Mindset
One of my yoga teachers instituted a “no complaining” challenge for November, which was absolutely amazing. Imagine what would happen if we put ourselves on a negativity detox for the entire season?! Instead of griping about the cold, what if we made snowmen for the front yard, bought a fun new scarf, caught snowflakes on our tongues? Instead of being sad when it gets dark at 4:30, what if we took the opportunity to watch movies, play board games or complete a puzzle with our kids?

A decision to embrace winter does not mean living in a fairy tale world. I understand that roads get slick and kids get sick. But there are benefits to a Wisconsin winter that we sometimes forget. My advice is to simply embrace the positive and downplay the negative.

Don’t hibernate
Last thing – the study mentioned that perhaps one of the reasons the Norwegians are so happy is that they stay active as they embrace winter. I’m not saying Netflix marathons are a bad idea per se. I just know that I feel better when I’m active, regardless of the season. We live a short drive from a number of downhill ski resorts, and this is the year I’m finally going to take lessons. We’re also getting snowshoes for the kids for Christmas.

The Fox River Trail is now plowed year-round. It’s an excellent place to walk or run during winter. We also have a limited number of days to enjoy the skating rink and tubing hill at Titletown, as well as the sledding hills at Josten Park or Triangle Sports Area.

Last, last thing – remember to take care of yourselves, moms. Eating well and managing your stress is extra important this time of year. And if you aren’t taking a cruise or a mid-winter break, turn up the heat and get your heart pumping by doing hot yoga or swimming laps at an indoor pool. It’ll just make it that much easier to dive back into swimsuit season when warmer weather comes back again.

How do you embrace winter in Wisconsin? Share your tips in the comments!

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