I live in Michigan, and anyone who lives here knows we barely see the sun in the winter. Weeks can go by under gray skies, and over time, that lack of light can really begin to affect us mentally and emotionally.

For many years, I struggled with a deep winter depression that I couldn’t seem to shake until the warmer months returned. I remember actually counting the days without sunshine, waiting for spring as if it were the only way out.

Things began to change when I was introduced to Charlotte Mason’s philosophy that there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing, along with the 1,000 Hours Outside movement, a concept I truly believe everyone could benefit from exploring. Even if you never reach 1,000 hours, intentionally increasing your time outdoors can have a profound impact.

For me, the antidote to seasonal depression was getting outside more, not only on sunny days, but on any day. Sometimes a quick walk around the yard is enough to lift my mood. I’m grateful to live in an area with plenty of trails to explore, but even if you live in a city, sidewalks and small pockets of nature can still offer the same benefit.

You might tell yourself that it is impossible or even ridiculous to get outside every day in the dead of winter. I understand there are circumstances that make it unsafe at times, but outside of those exceptions, I gently challenge you to try.

The key is proper clothing. Layers are essential in winter, especially with children. Most of the time, my kids end up shedding layers once they get moving and warm. Good footwear that keeps feet dry is also important.( We love our BOGS find them on amazon https://amzn.to/4q7fiTq) Wool socks are best because they regulate temperature without trapping sweat, which actually keeps toes warmer longer.

We especially love walking along moving water, creeks, streams, rivers. There is something deeply grounding about it. It shifts my mind into a calmer, more present state almost instantly. Sometimes we walk the freezing shorelines of Lake Michigan, still scanning the rocks for one that stands out. The tropical blue hues of the water against the frozen shoreline create a scene that feels almost unreal.

Winter offers experiences you simply won’t find in any other season. On extremely cold days, sparkling ice crystals can coat the trees and grass, turning everything into a quiet wonderland. Snowflakes land delicately on coats and mittens, each one different if you pause long enough to notice. And of course, snow forts can only be built in winter.

I encourage you to lean into the joy with your children. Sled, explore, build, laugh. Revisit the simple magic of your own childhood.

And even if you don’t participate in winter activities at all, simply stepping outside still does your body good. Even under gray clouds, outdoor light helps regulate your circadian rhythm, supports mental health, and reminds your body that it is part of the natural world, not separate from it.

Try not to resent this season. Don’t give in to the feeling that life is on pause until spring. If you are always waiting for the perfect weather, the perfect day, or the perfect feeling, you will always be waiting.

Winter is here. And it holds beauty, if we are willing to step outside and meet it.

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