For several days, an icy wind has been felt almost everywhere in France. The good news? These cool temperatures also bring a certain comfort, thanks to the arrival of the first snowflakes of the season. But if these powder precipitations can irritate some (transport stopped, schools closed, etc.), others find a smile at the first flake. Pascal Anger, clinical psychologist, analyzes for True Medical what this snow awakens in us.
Snow is expected almost everywhere in France
Over the next few days, France will put on its beautiful white coat. Around fifty departments have been placed on “yellow snow-ice alert”, particularly in Île-de-France, where showers mixing rain and snow are “possible”. In detail, snow showers at low altitude or in the plains are still expected in the center-east, particularly in Ain, Isère and Savoie.
“In the Pyrenees, snowfall continues, from the first heights, the accumulations becoming significant, particularly in Ariège. specifies the Météo-France website.
Something to delight the French, eager to put on their boots and fur-lined coats. But while some are already stressed at the idea of seeing their morning routine disrupted (trains and cars stopped, etc.), how can we explain that the vast majority are happy about it? Can snow really make us happy? According to Science, yes.
A real anti-stress remedy
Contrary to appearances, the “magical” effect of snow is not just due to its aesthetics: this fine white powder has several recognized psychological, physiological and social virtues. It acts as a sort of balm for the mind. Various tests carried out in snowy forests have shown that it tends to reduce negative emotions (anxiety, anger, depression, etc.).
A study conducted by the University of Kentucky reveals that snow is capable of absorbing up to 60% of ambient noise, creating a haven of calm and serenity. A hushed silence, which promotes relaxation and definitely improves our mood.
An invitation to slow down
If snow also does us (so much) good, it is because it increases the ambient light thanks to its high reflective power. And light plays a role in regulating serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in mood, energy and well-being. This is also why some people use light therapy in winter.
Snow therefore naturally compensates for the gray winter weather, which undermines our morale.
“Snow brings light in the gray, it is a source of well-being. It will also push us to go out, to move forward. Full of benefits, it soothes us and teaches us to savor the interior, around a good fireplace. With her, time stops. We breathe differently”, recognizes Pascal Anger, clinical psychologist.
These flakes ultimately help us to refocus, to savor the moment… and to return to childhood. “The snow imposes another rhythm on us which surprises us… and which can be pleasant when it “falls on us”specifies the expert.
A nice excuse to get together
Snow not only transforms the city: it also pushes us closer together. As soon as it falls, children and adults alike engage in snowball fights or draw by the fire. These shared moments are good for morale: they create bonds and bring back childhood memories.
“The snow allows us to come together and enjoy these moments of joy together,” confirms the psychologist.
And when we come home, there is this desire to cocoon: slip under a blanket, light a fire, enjoy a hot drink… All while watching the snowflakes fall through the window.
Enough to start teleworking tomorrow to take advantage of these stolen micro moments!