Enjoying the Lafayette Nature Center in the Winter

The colder, darker days of winter seem to naturally orient us toward the indoors. We look forward to cozying up at home and slowing down our daily pace as we enjoy comforting hobbies like reading, crafting, and baking. While we may feel less apt to brave the elements, we can get just as much fulfillment from exploring the wintery world outside our front doors—provided that we’re adequately prepared for our adventures!

The Norwegian principle friluftsliv describes the value of an “open-air life.” Kari Leibowitz, author of How to Winter: Harness Your Mindset To Thrive on Cold, Dark, or Difficult Days, emphasizes that friluftsliv is about finding freedom and connection in the outdoors to benefit well-being. Scandinavian winter outdoor time often prompts taking an awe-inspired walk in nature, grilling hot dogs on an outdoor BBQ pit, and sipping hot chocolate in the refreshingly cold air. The result, as Leibowitz writes, is a completely different perspective on life during the winter—one that isn’t bound or limited by the weather. By bundling up properly and taking that first step out the door, we, too, can embrace friluftsliv in our everyday lives this winter season.

Visiting the Lafayette Nature Center is a great way to start enjoying nature year-round. This is a perfect time to have a different experience at Coal Creek Open Space. We’ve delighted in finding animal tracks, spotting bird nests, and breaking ice to explore the depths below. Now that our water features are turned off, kids have also enjoyed shifting their focus to building epic forts and sledding. There truly is something for everyone. We’re lucky to have beautifully sunny days throughout the winter that warm our faces and give snow that magic sparkle. Plus, it’s a perfect backdrop for grilling hot dogs on LNC’s BBQ grill. Friluftsliv might be more attainable than we think.

CLICK HERE to read more about Kari Leibowitz’s writing and thriving in the winter.