In this podcast episode, the focus is on cultivating a positive mindset about winter, drawing insights from research in Scandinavia, especially Tromsø, Norway. Dr. Kari Leibowitz, who lived above the Arctic Circle for a year, shares how locals embrace the long, dark winter months. The key takeaway is that our mindset plays a crucial role in shaping our winter experiences. By seeking out opportunities and creating winter rituals, we can turn what is often seen as a gloomy season into one filled with warmth and joy. The conversation also distinguishes between typical winter fatigue and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), stressing the need for professional support for clinical depression while recognizing that it's normal to feel less energetic during winter. Lastly, the episode touches on how climate change affects our winter experiences and underscores the importance of preserving this unique season.
