Why I don't use the term "bad" weather
Five reasons to embrace challenging weather and get outside no matter what
Our attitudes about the weather matter more than we think
With extreme weather becoming more and more common around the planet, the Scandinavian saying “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes,” may come across as a tad tone deaf. If so, please hear me out.
There’s a distinct difference between rightfully avoiding hazardous conditions (hurricanes, tornadoes, thunderstorms etc) and routinely dismissing weather as “bad” just because it requires more effort for us to stay comfortable than, say, a bluebird day with temperatures in the low seventies. And our attitudes matter.
I avoid calling the weather “bad” for several reasons, but mainly because I don’t want negative perceptions about the conditions outside to rub off on my children, or subconsciously put myself in a bad mood. Instead, I usually say that the weather is “challenging.” There’s a subtle but important difference between those words and they have the power to affect not only our chances of getting outside, but also how we perceive our time outdoors. “Bad” is a judgment that leads to passivity and a negative mindset. “Challenge” implies an opportunity to actively problem-solve and grow.
I know from conversations with parents that weather is a major barrier to children’s outdoor play, and many adults hesitate to go outside in challenging weather as well. At the same time, it’s common for schools to restrict outdoor recess in inclement weather because they’re worried about the parents’ reaction. (In some cases, lack of proper gear is a legitimate problem, but I’ll save that issue for another post.)
If you want to convince your child’s school to allow more outdoor recess or simply need a motivation boost yourself, these are five good reasons for embracing the weather all year:
Enables more time in the outdoors. We spend more time inside than ever before and pay the price with diminishing physical and mental health. When you eliminate the weather as a barrier and consistently get outside, one of the most direct results is that you have more opportunities to reap the benefits from being outdoors.
Develops grit and resilience. Grit is the tendency to consistently work toward long-term goals, even when you struggle, and resilience is the ability to bounce back in the face of failure. Dealing with challenging and unpredictable weather is a great way to develop both, as it teaches us to adapt and find joy in situations that may initially seem uncomfortable.
Improves risk management. Going outdoors in different weather conditions encourages us to dress for the weather, plan ahead, assess situations and make informed decisions about safety. This ability to manage risk can be invaluable in many other contexts, both in our personal and professional lives.
Deepens our connection with nature. Experiencing the different moods of nature beyond the fair-weather days is like getting to know the person behind their glossy social media highlights, resulting in a deeper and more multifaceted connection. Different types of weather also provide for unique sensory experiences.
Fosters gratitude. After spending time outdoors in challenging weather, coming back to the warmth and comfort of home is a reward in itself, which can cultivate gratitude for the things we normally take for granted. In turn, gratitude is consistently associated with greater happiness.
When we shift our mindset about the weather from avoidance to appreciation, we are able to see each day as an opportunity for growth and discovery. So let’s challenge ourselves and our children to find something to enjoy outside every day, and a stronger bond with nature will follow.
One thing to contemplate
When we reframe our feelings about the weather from ‘bad’ to ‘challenging’ we change our mindset from that of passive judgment to that of active problem solving.
Two things to watch/listen to
1. Camping tips for your next adventure. Hear from Lestarya Molloy, who has developed an app that has easy, digestible camping tips for newbies.
2. Outdoors for all. The outdoors may be free, but is it equal for all? This thought provoking video is definitely worth five minutes of your time.
Three things to read
1. Why your children should take risks while playing outdoors this summer. Injury prevention expert Dr. Mariana Brussoni reveals why risky play is so important for children’s health and development.
2. Here’s how you can train your body to handle the heat. Your body can and will adapt to warmer temperatures, it just takes time. After some heat training, you’ll feel less miserable out there and your risk of heat illness will decrease.
3. Stories from the Trail. This collection of hiking essays (including one written by me) is now open for pre-order. Full of reflections, hard-earned lessons, and stories from the trail, all aiming to inspire you to find your own way in the great outdoors.
See you outside!
Linda
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Before you go...
I have a curated selection of some of my favorite children's outerwear at Outdoor School Shop. When you shop through the link, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Check out the Rain or Shine Mamma shop at ODSS here.
I've published two books: There's No Such Thing as Bad Weather and The Open-Air Life. If you enjoyed them, you can help others find them by leaving an Amazon review here and here respectively.
I often get interviewed about outdoor play and nature connection at various podcasts. You can find all the episodes I've participated in here.
Do you have a book club or head up a nature play community? I love doing virtual author visits! Just hit reply to this message to connect.
I do virtual speaking events for corporations, non-profits and online summits. You can read more about that here.
Do YOU have something going on in the nature connection space that you think this community should hear about? If so, hit 'reply' and let me know what you're up to - I'd be happy to share!
I think part of it comes from the fact that we've grown too comfortable. People expect to stay in shorts and t-shirt during the winter, as well, instead of dressing appropriately for each season.