Time change week. It can produce exhausted kids and parents, internet memes, and darkness that creeps in before you’re even home from work.  Do you see any benefits to the time change or are you like 70% of Americans who wish we would abandon the whole idea?

I don’t particularly enjoy the time change, but I am excited about some benefits of darkness that we can tap into this fall. Scandinavian countries, cloaked in darkness for all but a few hours of daylight in the winter, can teach us a thing or two about relishing darkness and cold weather.

In fact, the Norwegian town of Tromso doesn’t see sunlight at all during its winter-long Polar Night, yet residents don’t experience elevated rates of depression. That makes me wonder what residents of Tromso, and others living in this part of the world, do to promote good cheer during their dark winter? In this Atlantic article, a writer describes his experience in Tromso with Koselig (Norwegian for cozy)–a concept that brings joy to cold, dark months through things like the Northern Lights, candles, snow, and skiing.

The author also explores the book Mindset: The New Psychology of Success and explains how mindset might contribute to the Norwegians’ positive experience of winter. That growth mindset is something we focus on here at Paratus. In addition, members of our Pushing Past the Pages groups have been sharing ideas for coaching with compassion and a ready mind, as well as resilience. And blog readers are using these free planners (child and teen) to help their children reflect on their days and consider “Who was kind today?” and “How can I do good as I grow?” 

We can continue growing, even in seemingly dormant winter. As the people of Tromso show, community serves as light for us to grow and thrive. That’s why I’ve been investing energy in building this Paratus community–a place where parents, educators, and coaches can explore, learn, share ideas, reflect, practice and grow. A place where emotional intelligence and connection are priorities. Fostering a sense of warmth, community and comfort. 

I’m excited about a new way for us to center this learning and connection. Ask About My Day Cafe will provide a group connection opportunity along with weekly activities and resources to use within your family and alongside children – stay tuned! And in Part 2 of this series, we’ll look at how those activities can support your sense of Koselig, Hygge, or cozy joy, through these colder, darker months.

I look forward to sharing more with you soon. So much wonderful can come from connection and intention!

Stay warm,