Kari Leibowitz on How to Overcome the Winter Blues | EP 554
Passion Struck with John R. Miles
Deep Dive
What is the wintertime mindset and how can it help us thrive during difficult seasons?
The wintertime mindset is about embracing the challenges of winter with intention and curiosity, finding opportunities for growth, rest, and connection. It involves preparing for the season, slowing down, and reframing rest as a vital practice. This mindset helps us approach not just winter, but all of life's difficult seasons, with resilience and a focus on finding joy and meaning even in the darkest times.
How can small preparatory behaviors like setting out cozy blankets or stocking up on tea help us approach winter more intentionally?
Small preparatory behaviors like setting out cozy blankets or stocking up on tea help us take agency over the season and tune into its opportunities. These actions create a sense of comfort and pleasure, reclaiming a time often seen as dreary. They also prepare us to meet the challenges of winter proactively, fostering resilience and a positive mindset.
What lessons can we learn from cultures that thrive in extreme winters, like Norway and Japan?
Cultures that thrive in extreme winters, like Norway and Japan, emphasize adapting to the season by changing behaviors, such as wearing appropriate clothing, eating seasonal foods, and slowing down. They see winter as a time for rest, connection, and intimacy, fostering a sense of psychological safety and belonging. These practices highlight the importance of aligning with natural cycles and finding joy in the season’s unique opportunities.
Why is rest important during winter, and how can we overcome guilt associated with it?
Rest is vital during winter as it allows for restoration and prepares us for the growth of spring. It’s a natural response to the season’s darkness and cold. To overcome guilt, we can reframe rest as a necessary life skill and experiment with different forms of rest, such as longer showers or mental breaks. Embracing rest helps us meet future challenges with greater ease and resilience.
How can we distinguish between natural winter fatigue and Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.)?
Natural winter fatigue involves feeling more tired, less motivated, or less social, which is a normal response to seasonal changes. Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.), however, is a subtype of clinical depression requiring severe symptoms like lack of motivation, feelings of worthlessness, or impaired daily functioning for at least two weeks. If symptoms are severe and persistent, it’s important to consult a health professional.
What does the Scandinavian saying 'There's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing' teach us about overcoming limitations?
The Scandinavian saying emphasizes that with proper preparation, we can enjoy outdoor activities even in cold or rainy weather. It challenges the belief that bad weather prevents enjoyment and encourages us to overturn preconceptions by bundling up and experiencing the outdoors. This mindset teaches us to face perceived limitations head-on and discover unexpected joy in challenging conditions.
How can people in milder climates apply the lessons from 'How to Winter' during difficult or transitional periods?
Even in milder climates, people can apply lessons from 'How to Winter' by embracing seasonal fluctuations in darkness and asking, 'What are the opportunities here?' This involves creating cozy atmospheres, slowing down, and finding activities that are better suited to the season. The key is to approach challenges with curiosity and intention, finding opportunities for growth and connection.
Shownotes Transcript