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Finding Gratitude in Freezing Temperatures

Micky Kayn

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The cold has a way of humbling us. The sharp sting of winter air on our cheeks, the crunch of snow beneath our boots, and the way frost clings to bare branches like glittering lace — it’s nature’s stark reminder of both its power and its beauty. Yet, amid the discomfort of freezing temperatures, there’s a wealth of gratitude to uncover if we’re willing to look.

Think back to when winter was an adventure, not an inconvenience. As kids, snow meant more than slippery roads and cold toes. It meant snowball fights that blurred the lines between teams, laughter erupting with every direct hit, and the camaraderie of warming up together with hot cocoa afterward. Winter was a time that brought people together, not apart — a reminder of how the cold can forge connections.

Today, some intentionally embrace the cold, finding joy and growth in its challenges. Take the Polar Bear Club, for instance — a group of daring souls who dive into frigid waters every winter, emerging with rosy cheeks and exhilaration. For them, the cold isn’t an enemy but a catalyst for resilience, clarity, and community. Cold therapy has grown in popularity for similar reasons. Plunging into ice baths or standing beneath freezing showers isn’t just about enduring discomfort — it’s about awakening the body and mind, sharpening focus, and finding strength you didn’t know you had.

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