Brave the cold: What New Englanders can learn from Norway’s winter wellness mindset

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When the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, many New Englanders brace themselves for months of icy roads; gray skies; long, dark nights; and the inevitable winter blues. But in Norway—a country where winter can last half the year—people don’t just endure the cold. They thrive in it. In fact, per the World’s Happiness Report, Norway consistently places in the top 10 and even reached #1 in 2017.


So what is their secret? A mindset shift that transforms winter from a season of survival into one of opportunity. This cultural approach to winter wellness offers valuable lessons for New Englanders. By embracing getting outdoors, movement, community, and mental health, we can reframe winter as a time to recharge, reconnect, and stay active.

Here we offer four ways to adopt a Norwegian-inspired winter wellness mindset—and how your health plan can support you along the way.

  1. Reframe winter as a season to thrive

Norwegians practice a concept called friluftsliv, which loosely translates to “open-air living.” It’s a philosophy that encourages spending time outdoors, regardless of the weather. Rather than dreading the cold, they see it as a chance to connect with nature, slow down, and enjoy seasonal activities.

New Englanders can adopt a similar mindset by shifting their internal narrative. Instead of saying “I hate winter,” try “I’m excited to explore winter in new ways.” This small change can have a big impact on mental health and motivation.

How to improve mental health in winter:

  • Practice gratitude for seasonal experiences (snowfall, cozy nights, winter sports).
  • Use mindfulness apps or behavioral health resources to manage stress.
  • If you aren't already, consider exploring your health plan's behavioral health resources to maintain balance during seasonal shifts.
  • Schedule regular check-ins with a therapist via virtual visits, especially if you notice signs of seasonal depression.

  1. Move more: Stay physically active safely

Staying active in winter is essential for physical and mental health. Norwegians don’t let snow or cold stop them—they layer up and head outside for skiing, hiking, or even walking. Movement boosts endorphins, improves circulation, and helps combat winter fatigue.

Outdoor activities for exercise in New England might include:

If outdoor cardio exercises aren’t your thing, there are plenty of ways to stay active at home:

  • Try online fitness classes or yoga sessions.
  • Join a local gym or fitness facility. Find a YMCA near you.
  • Set a goal to “get steps in during winter” by pacing indoors or using a treadmill.


Exercise tips for winter:

  • Warm up properly before outdoor workouts.
  • Stay hydrated—even in cold weather.
  • Use your health plan’s preventive care benefits to check in on joint health, heart health, and more.

  1. Think (and plan) cozy winter rituals

Norwegians embrace koselig, a concept like coziness, but deeper—it’s about warmth, togetherness, and emotional comfort. Winter is a time for gathering with friends, lighting candles, and sharing meals. These moments of shared joy can help combat isolation and build resilience.

New Englanders can create their own koselig by:

  • Hosting potlucks or game nights.
  • Joining local clubs or winter sports groups.
  • Attending community events like winter festivals or farmers markets.

Even virtual gatherings can foster connection. If you’re feeling isolated, consider reaching out to a friend or joining an online support group. Your health plan may also offer behavioral health resources to help you stay emotionally well.

  1. Use your health plan’s benefits to support your winter wellness

Winter can bring unique health challenges—from seasonal affective disorder to depression to slips and falls. Your health plan is here to help you stay safe, supported, and proactive.

Winter wellness tips from your health plan:

  • Preventive care: Schedule annual checkups, flu shots, and screenings.
  • Telehealth: Know when to use telehealth for minor illnesses, mental health support, or follow-ups.
  • Behavioral health: Access counseling, therapy, or stress management tools.
  • Fitness benefits: Your health plan may offer gym or virtual fitness program reimbursement. This is one way to stay active and save yourself some money. If you’re unsure what’s covered, check the Member Portal at Member.MGBHP.org or call the number on the back of your health plan Member ID Card.      

Embrace winter, the Scandinavian way

Winter doesn’t have to be a season of hibernation. With the right mindset, movement, and support, it can be a time of growth, joy, and connection. By learning from Scandinavian’s cultural habits and using your health plan’s resources, you can transform your winter experience—and maybe even start looking forward to the colder months.
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