A wellness expert trained at Stanford who spent a year in Norway shares three strategies for thriving during the cold, dark, and challenging days of winter.

If you have the right mindset, winter can truly be the most wonderful time of the year, says Kari Leibowitz.

Leibowitz, a Stanford-trained psychologist, spent a year in Tromsø, Norway, focusing on mental health and wellbeing through shifting thinking.

In Tromsø, situated above the Arctic Circle, the sun does not rise for two consecutive months during winter. As stated in her book "How to Winter," Leibowitz was attracted to the Arctic to comprehend how individuals living in some of the darkest winters on Earth manage to endure the season.

Most residents of Tromsø embrace winter instead of fearing it.

Leibowitz discovered how to appreciate the cold, dark winter days through her time in Norway.

3 ways to embrace and enjoy cold, dark days

1. Appreciate winter

The end of daylight saving time can make us feel anxious about the upcoming colder and darker days, which is why this time of year is commonly referred to as SAD season, for seasonal affective disorder.

Leibowitz advises against assuming winter will be miserable as it can lead to confirmation bias, which is the tendency to seek out information that confirms our beliefs and mindsets.

"When the mere mention of winter brings only negativity, it suggests that our winter will be dreary."

By using confirmation bias, you can reframe winter as a wonderful season and plan special events like movie nights or candlelit dinners with loved ones. Scheduling these events around the time that daylight saving time ends can increase the chances of winter being a fun time for you.

Preparing your home for winter can enhance your enjoyment of the season.

Prepare for the cold by pulling out warm clothing, stocking up on warm drinks, and placing candles around your home.

2. Make it a special time

You can make winter a special time for yourself now that you're excited about it.

To create a cozy atmosphere during winter, Leibowitz suggests turning off the main lighting in your house and using twinkly lights, small lamps, and candles.

Plan special dates like Sunday dinners and have comfort foods on hand.

Engaging in "low-arousal-positive activities" during wintertime, as recommended by Leibowitz, can help you relax and feel at ease. These activities include:

• Meditating
• Painting
• Doing puzzles
• Knitting
• Taking baths
• Reading
• Slow walks

Establishing routines for activities during this time of year makes it more enjoyable and anticipatory.

3. Get outside

Despite the cold weather, you can manage if you are adequately prepared. In his book, Leibowitz discusses the chapter titled, "You're not made of sugar."

"Those who thrive during winter find ways to spend time outdoors," she wrote.

"Engaging in activities such as skiing, swimming, hiking, or simply taking their dog for a walk around the neighborhood, being outside is a significant aspect of their winter routines."

Before embarking on a winter walk, she advised dressing warmly, layering clothes, and wearing waterproof shoes.

After you feel comfortable venturing into the chilly weather, aim to spend 15 more minutes outdoors than you initially intended.

After the experience, reflect on how you truly feel. Did your expectations align with reality? Leibowitz suggests that you might enjoy winter walks more than you anticipate.

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