When the temperature drops and darkness creeps in earlier each day, our instinct is often to retreat. We wrap ourselves in the comfort of indoor heating, Netflix queues, and endless scrolling. But despite nature being fully at rest, by avoiding winter's discomfort we can miss profound opportunities for connection and growth.

The data is clear - spending time outdoors, even in cold weather, significantly reduces stress hormones and boosts mood. Could it be something to do with embracing the vulnerability of being uncomfortable? That first step into the crisp morning air, feeling our cheeks flush and breath visible - it's a small act of strength that ripples into other areas of our lives.

I see it in my own life when I bundle up for morning walks. There's something so grounding about hearing frost crunch under your boots and feeling part of the stark winter landscape rather than separated from it. It reminds me that we're wired for resilience and adaptation, not just comfort.

The winter forces us to practice “engaged discomfort" - staying present with challenging sensations while remembering our capacity to handle them. In doing so we build confidence in the knowledge that temporary discomfort won't break us.

The research shows people who regularly spend time outdoors in winter report higher levels of self-efficacy and emotional regulation. In other words, braving the cold helps us build psychological muscles we can flex in other challenging situations.

So here's my challenge to you: Put down your phone. Step away from the artificial warmth. Bundle up and step outside, even for just ten minutes. Notice the quiet. Feel the wind. Remember that courage isn't about being fearless - it's about feeling the fear (or the cold) and moving forward anyway.

The Courage to feel Cold

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