Welcome to this edition of the Crossings Health Newsletter, where we will be talking about embracing winter, seeing how well you know your partner, and giving you some tips if you are feeling overwhelmed. So, why not take a moment for yourself?
Grab a warm drink, find a comfortable spot by the fire, and enjoy these five minutes dedicated to you.
With the winter solstice behind us, the days are slowly getting longer. It’s a reminder that after celebrating the longest night, we are awakening to the birth of light! Each day we get six more minutes of sunlight, taking us from dark winter to light winter!
Embrace the Winter with Hygge
While winter can feel long and dark, embracing the concepts of Hygge (Danish for coziness) and Koselig (its Norwegian counterpart) can help you find joy in simple, comforting moments. Whether it’s lighting candles, wrapping up in soft blankets with a warm drink, settling in for a quiet evening with a good book or show, or sharing meaningful time with loved ones, these small acts can bring warmth and connection to even the chilliest days.
One way to step into these Nordic inspired themes is to enjoy some Nordic Noir TV. A genre of crime thriller usually written from a police point of view and set in the Nordic countries.
These are Jodie’s favorites to watch, but buyer beware, they are not for the faint of heart. They will definitely get your mind off winter!
Fortitude
Set on the edge of the Arctic Circle, Fortitude is a town known for its tranquility - there’s never been a violent crime here. That is, until a shocking event shatters the calm, drawing you into a suspenseful, atmospheric thriller.
The Bridge
When a body is discovered on the bridge connecting Denmark and Sweden, two detectives, Danish Martin Rohde and Swedish Saga Norén, must work together across cultural and personal differences. This gripping crime drama is packed with twists and compelling characters, making it an engaging watch!
Trapped
The life of the residents of a small town in Iceland is disrupted after a corpse is caught by fishermen. However, once the investigations begin, the true nature of the people of the town is revealed.
How well do you know your partner?
A healthy relationship is built on knowing your partner’s inner world – their likes, dislikes, stresses, and dreams. But these things change over time, so staying updated is important!
Take this quiz together to see how well you’re keeping up with each other.
1. What is your partner’s current biggest work-related stressor?
a) A difficult project or deadline
b) Balancing work-life commitments
c) Job insecurity or change
d) Other: ___________
2. What is one of your partner’s long-term goals?
a) Advancing in their career
b) Traveling to a specific place
c) Starting a new hobby or business
d) Other: ___________
3. What is your partner’s favorite way to unwind after a stressful day?
a) Watching a favorite show or movie
b) Going for a walk or exercising
c) Reading or listening to music
d) Other: ___________
4. If your partner could take a vacation anywhere right now, where would it be?
a) A tropical beach
b) A mountain cabin
c) A big city getaway
d) Other: ___________
5. What has been your partner’s favorite moment together in the last month?
a) A romantic dinner or date night
b) A meaningful conversation
c) A fun, spontaneous activity
d) Other: ___________
How did you do?
0-2 Correct
Time to reconnect! Life changes quickly, and staying in tune with your partner’s inner world is key to maintaining closeness.
3-5 Correct
You’re doing great! Keep asking these kinds of questions to stay updated on each other’s changing needs and desires.
Are you feeling overwhelmed?
If you are, it could be a sign that you are missing sunlight. Make sure you’re getting your Vitamin D, using your light box, or getting outside in the sun whenever possible. You’re an Alaskan - you know what to do!
This Month’s Recipe
Salmon Chowder
This hearty, flavorful salmon chowder is Jodie’s favorite and a breeze to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a cozy meal with loved ones.
Say hello to Aarne!
That’s Finnish for ruler of eagles. He’s a 9 week old Yellow Lab who hails from Covington, Ohio. He starts at Alaska Dog Works Board and Train next week. When he completes that program, he’ll start his 1st of 4 semesters of Therapy Dog training. We’ll be sure to keep you posted on his progress!
Jodie’s Corner
As we embark on a new year, we have a fresh start with hope set anew. Setting our intentions for 2025 is important. What is something you want to pursue or accomplish? Is there something that you have conviction about? Make it happen in 2025 by setting it and writing it down.
In January and February, I’m heading off to Costa Rica for an advanced training in Brainspotting and to get a little beach time with my colleagues. When I return I’ll be taking another, never before offered, advanced training called Brainspotting Phase 5 developed by David Grand the founder of Brainspotting. I am also taking a Brain Science workshop in January, along with working to become a Brainspotting consultant.
My goal and intention is simply to be really good at what I do, so that I can provide people with opportunities for the highest form of healing. My conviction is that I want people to be able to leave past hurts behind and live full and abundant lives filled with happiness.
Please enjoy my photo of Alyeska in Girdwood at midnight on New Year’s! I think it’s a good omen for us all in 2025.
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