Like so many things in life, avoiding the cold and dark at this time of the year can make it seem worse than it might actually be.

Instead of hiding from it, consider embracing it. And if that seems like a stretch, start with accepting it.

Many challenges make it harder to explore during the holiday season, from additional social engagements to the time and energy it takes to make the holidays special with family. The freezing temperatures, precipitation and the shorter hours of daylight could be seen as additional roadblocks to getting outside or being active. Or with slightly more preparation, you can go on an adventure anyway.

Wishing away the winter season just makes it feel longer. Resisting, avoiding, focusing on the negatives of things allows those very things to take up more space in our minds. If you’re really not a cold weather person, find ways to enjoy what winter has to offer — even if that means the best part of a snowy hike or soggy run is the warm drink or the hot shower afterward.

The weeks around winter solstice, when the sun rises late and sets early, seem less daunting when focusing on the unique opportunity to appreciate even the smallest sources of light. This might be all of the extra decorations around town and in neighborhoods, or the smile from a stranger at the store; the glowing moon and twinkling stars or the kind, unexpected text. Delight in all these small things, because the dimmest light gets brighter when reflected in another person.

The very word delight could mean “of the light” or “without light.” There’s concurrent truth in both meanings. Sunrise and sunset are easier to view at this time of year. Set aside time to watch twilight spread across the sky.

Say yes to opportunities to experience the dark and cold. Winter adventures may be shorter and closer to home, or they can still be long treks that lead to summits. Either way, accept an invitation to join someone or be the initiator of such an experience. Open yourself to the opportunity, open your eyes to see the light, or let them adjust so you can find your way through the dark. Discover the expanse of stars in the sky or the way shadows dance in the forest. Let yourself feel the cold and realize the incredible abilities of a body, even in adverse conditions.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Begin

Getting started is the hardest part. The temperatures seem frigid, the rain seems heavier, the dark seems more dense from inside a warm home or car. I’ve lingered and procrastinated in these conditions more times than I can count, but every time I step out into them, I’m glad I did.

It’s like jumping into cold water: Take the plunge, and do it quickly without too much thinking. Once engaged in an activity or exercise, the body warms up quickly. Freezing cold doesn’t seem so bad anymore and you might discover a different beauty in the dark. The snow glimmers differently with a headlamp, the trees take on a different shape as shadowed silhouettes.

Be prepared, be safe

When venturing out into the cold or the dark, it is critical to be prepared for the weather. Dressing in layers allows for flexibility if body temperature heats up during an activity or for adding on an extra layer if the wind or precipitation intensifies. A good headlamp illuminates the winter landscape and adds some extra fascination to exploring after dark. There are many options out there. Most importantly, make sure it is fully charged or carry an extra set of batteries as power drains faster in cold temperatures. If it’s safe to do so, take a moment to turn that light off at some point — while stationary — to fully experience the darkness.

Be seen

Reflective clothing or straps are also important for visibility along roads and paths. A vest or straps that go over clothing are convenient and enable you to change layers underneath as opposed to a jacket that may not be the right layer for the conditions. The design of this “xinglet” is slim and adjustable allowing for great freedom of movement while running. It is bright but not too flashy.

It’s always smart to go with another person or tell someone where you plan to go and an estimated return time.

Wonders await outside — even on these cold, dark days.

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