Trudging through the snow might not sound like your idea of a good time, but a surprising study suggests you might want to grab your scarf and lace up your boots.
Researchers in Poland and the UK found that walking in the snow can have an unexpected effect on your mental health — and even change how you feel when you look in the mirror.
“Our findings demonstrate the importance of ensuring that everyone can access restorative natural environments, which may be a cost-effective way of promoting healthier body image,” senior author Viren Swami said in a statement.
The study, carried out last winter, involved 87 Polish women ages 19 to 55, with BMIs ranging from underweight to obese.
With Americans facing another three months of winter, and New Yorkers bracing for what could be the snowiest weekend in years, the findings could be welcome news.