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Jaymes O’Pheron has developed a unique adaptation to winter living, finding opportunity amid the frigid cold rather than shying away from it. Now 34, O’Pheron moved to Fargo, North Dakota in 2021, joining his wife Carla. Their previous lives took them through various climates, including Washington, Tennessee, Texas, and even Ireland.
The couple was drawn to North Dakota for several reasons, including its low cost of living, the emergence of vibrant urban centers, and policies that favor small businesses. O’Pheron, an entrepreneur and burnout coach, assists other business owners, while Carla is engaged with a dealer of precious metals.
Despite harsh winter conditions, with recent temperatures plunging to minus 25 degrees and only slightly above in more temperate spells, O’Pheron remains unfazed. He credits this resilience to his wife’s background as a former middle school teacher in Alaska, not far from the Arctic Circle. As he explains, they’ve embraced the cold rather than fear it.
Since settling in Fargo, O’Pheron has adopted two key Nordic philosophies: “friluftsliv“—the art of connecting with nature outdoors—and “sisu“, which embodies inner strength and resilience. He believes these concepts can immensely help others navigate the winter months.
Reframe your mindset
One of O’Pheron’s primary recommendations is to shift one’s mindset about the winter weather. He stresses that taking control over one’s response to the cold can significantly enhance the overall experience of the season. According to him, “If you simply allow the weather to dictate your mood, you risk a bleak winter.” Instead, he advocates for embracing the chill, finding beauty in the winter landscape, and engaging with the local arts scene, from symphonies to theatrical productions.
He offers this perspective: “There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing.” This philosophy encourages individuals to dress appropriately and venture outside, fostering a sense of adventure even in the depths of winter.
Try cold plunges and heated saunas
O’Pheron has integrated cold plunges into his routine, believing that these brief immersions in icy water allow him to cultivate resilience. He likens the practice to “training for a blizzard,” enhancing his physical and mental fortitude against the cold. Various studies show that cold-water exposure can positively affect mood and even mitigate symptoms of anxiety and depression, suggesting there may be some benefits to this practice.
Cold plunges enable O’Pheron to improve his body’s response to cold temperatures. He explains that this exposure to low temperatures aids in “exercising your body’s internal heater,” helping him feel warmer in the cold months. Additionally, he combines this practice with sessions in heated saunas, which serve to create a balance between physical endurance and self-care, fostering what he defines as “spiritual resilience.”
Spend time around other people
Another pivotal strategy O’Pheron advocates is maintaining social interactions during the winter months. He recognizes that staying socially engaged is essential for combating feelings of winter loneliness or depression. He emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with loved ones and participating in shared activities, regardless of the scale of the gathering. Whether it involves joining a local club or simply attending a movie with friends, O’Pheron believes that human connections can brighten even the darkest winter days.
“Even if the sun isn’t shining, spending time with others can lift your spirits,” he concludes, encouraging everyone to seek connection and joy amid the challenges that winter may bring.
Source
www.cnbc.com