I Didn’t Expect Winter to Make Me Stronger.

Hubby & I out in the first sleet of the season on the Rehobeth Bay

“I can’t do another winter.”

That was my husband on FaceTime, sitting in our little boathouse by the bay on the coldest day of the season so far.

“That’s my line,” I laughed back—coffee in hand, fire crackling, still in last year’s Christmas pajamas at our home in Pennsylvania.

When we moved here for a job at QVC, we never imagined that fourteen years later we’d still be shoveling snow, slipping on ice, dealing with burst pipes, and—yes—trying to keep chickens from freezing. And while we often daydream about living somewhere we don’t close the pool or take the boat out of the water, I’m deeply aware of how blessed this life has been. Rich, full, meaningful… even if it’s cold.

One thing I’ve learned to appreciate about winter is the way it quietly builds resilience. Extreme temperatures force us out of comfort and into adaptation. And while I do love an intentional cold plunge or sauna session, there’s something powerful about simply allowing our bodies to experience natural temperature variation—rather than keeping the thermostat locked at 70 degrees year-round.

Research shows that gentle exposure to hot and cold can support metabolism, improve insulin sensitivity, activate brown fat (which helps regulate weight and blood sugar), strengthen immune function, support brain chemistry, and even improve sleep. Our bodies were designed to adapt—and adaptation builds strength.

So while I’m not giving up on the dream of one day living somewhere warmer, I’m choosing to celebrate this season for what it offers. Letting a cold snap invite me into a brisk winter swim… followed by warm socks, a cozy blanket, and a fire-lit evening on the couch.

Sometimes discomfort isn’t something to escape—it’s something to steward.

How might you allow a little healthy temperature variation this week?A cooler house at night. A brisk walk outside instead of the treadmill. A warm shower finished with 30 seconds of cool water.

Small moments. Gentle challenges. Resilience built one choice at a time.

Be well,

Kerstin

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Wellness You Need This Season:

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Events & Appearances

 

❤️ New Weekly Livestream "The Refill" A wellness live chat 12:15-12:45 est Thursdays on Facebook.

❤️Im on QVC with something special from 8Greens - Saturday December 20th 7-10am Est (check facebook that morning for an exact time.)

❤️Please join me January 7th for our Open Prayer Group 9a PST/12pm EST. Virtual via Zoom. Tickets are Free, you just need to register here  https://www.kerstin-lindquist.com/event-list

  

❤️ Group Coaching CODE GOALS for 5$ off January 6th - Bring all your questions to this small, heartfelt group and get real answers and strategies in a safe affordable place. https://www.kerstin-lindquist.com/event-list