If you’ve been a Nice News reader for even a short period of time, you’ve likely seen us share that 2024 has been one of the best years for aurora borealis viewing thanks to particularly strong geomagnetic activity on the sun. That circumstance has made this year’s Northern Lights Photographer of the Year competition particularly special. Feast your eyes on the 25 winning images selected by Capture the Atlas.
How to Embrace the Chill This Winter — And Maybe Even Enjoy It
molchanovdmitry/ iStock
While winter is definitely the season of keeping cozy, that doesn’t have to mean staying indoors 24/7. In fact, experts say it probably shouldn’t: Research shows that time in nature lowers stress, boosts mood, and improves memory, whether it’s the middle of January or July. Exercise remains important in winter, too. “Being more active all year-round can help all people think, feel, and sleep better, and ultimately be happier,” Robert Graham, an internal and integrative medicine physician, told author Jennifer Walsh for an article in Yahoo Life. But if the idea of going for a stroll when it’s cold out sounds unappealing, to say the least, Walsh explains that the way you dress, eat, and move can all help you embrace — and even enjoy — chilly weather. After interviewing Graham, as well as former Navy Seal Steve Wisotzki and textile researcher Emiel DenHartog, she compiled some top tips for braving the chill thoughtfully, including a three-part method for layering clothes, accessories that actually make a difference (i.e. socks, handwarmers, and hats), and the best snacks to help the body generate heat. Her other advice? Focus on the good: “Despite the chill, winter landscapes have a unique magic. Whether it’s the sparkling frost on trees, the serene quiet of a snowy path, or the invigorating feel of cold air on your skin, there’s something special about being out in nature during this season.”
Together With Pique
Give the Gift of Glowing Skin
What better way to spread joy this holiday season than by gifting radiant skin? Surprise your loved ones (or yourself!) with Pique’s Radiant Skin Duo. This powerhouse combo features two daily drinks packed with ingredients that transform skin from the inside out. You can give the gift of brighter, deeply hydrated, and youthful skin in just 15 days. And for a limited time, Nice News readers get up to 20% off Pique’s Radiant Skin Duo and a free starter kit — learn more below.
The World’s First “Flying” Electric Ferry Is Coming to Lake Tahoe
Candela
Lake Tahoe is famous for its mesmerizingly clear opal water and the evergreen trees lining its rim, all against a backdrop of snowcapped mountains. But soon, you may see an (arguably) even more impressive sight darting across the lake’s surface: the first-ever “flying” ferry. Thanks to a partnership between local organization FlyTahoe and Swedish technology company Candela, a fleet of the world’s premiere hydrofoiling electric ferries is set to debut on the water as early as the end of 2025. Called the Candela P-12, the vessel can transport people, bikes, and ski equipment across the lake in just 30 minutes, half the time it takes to drive to the same destination. Beyond the convenience factor, these ferries boast another benefit: They’re better for the environment than traditional water taxis. Because they’re launched by renewable electricity, instead of diesel, they’re zero-emission models that consume 80% less energy. They also don’t require oil changes, reducing the risk of spills, and they’re significantly quieter than traditional vessels, causing less stress to wildlife. “It’s ironic that while millions, myself included, drive around Lake Tahoe to admire its beauty, the road sediment we generate contributes to the largest threat to the lake’s famous cobalt blue clarity,” FlyTahoe founder and CEO Ryan Meinzer said in a press release. “Our service will provide a faster transport than cars or buses, while keeping the lake blue.”
Science
Octopus Tentacles Inspire “a New Generation of Dentures”
tane-mahuta/ iStock
The world of octopuses is colliding with that of dentistry. In a first-of-its-kind study, scientists mimicked octopus suckers to create 3D-printed dentures that fit more comfortably and securely than current models, which often move out of place while wearers are speaking, laughing, or coughing. “I first had the idea to replicate sticky surfaces in nature while biting into a peach. I noticed how the furry skin stuck to the palate of my mouth and decided to investigate other sticky surfaces in nature. Octopus suckers seemed like the perfect place to start,” lead author Dr. Sherif Elsharkawy said in a press release. The researchers theorized that the “suction cups” on octopus tentacles could be applied to dentures, allowing them to stay put on the palate. Their removable models not only showed twice the amount of retention as traditional dentures, but also didn’t affect the look of the artificial teeth. “This research bridges nature and technology to tackle a long-standing challenge for denture wearers,” said Elsharkawy. He added: “Our findings pave the way for a new generation of dentures that can transform the quality of life for millions worldwide.” See the design.
In Other News
The Brutalistwon best film of the year at the New York Film Critics Circle Awards (read more)
The key to new tuberculosis treatments might be within fungi found in peat bogs (read more)
Sauna culture: Minnesotans are turning to a Finnish tradition to find community amid the cold (read more)
Eve, a rescued bear, was found bald due to mange — seven years later, she’s sporting a fur coat again (read more)
Something We Love
HumanKind: Changing the World One Small Act at a Time This feel-good book by Brad Aronson will touch your heart and change the world. Inside, you’ll meet the mentor who changed a child’s life with a single lesson in shoe-tying, the 6-year-old who launched a global kindness movement, and many other heroes. All royalties benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters, making HumanKind the perfect meaningful holiday gift. And you can get it now at 40% off — $10 for print and 99 cents for the e-book.*
*Indicates a Nice News brand partnership or affiliate
Inspiring Story
“It’s so important just to be yourself”
A new short film follows Cara Elizabeth Yar Khan’s inspiring journey across the Grand Canyon while living with a rare genetic disorder that causes her muscles to disintegrate. “You don’t realize the limits of what human beings can do unless you’re tested,” the disability advocate said. Watch the documentary, Facing the Falls.
Photo of the Day
Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile via Getty Images
It’s a happy week in Wales. On Tuesday, the Welsh women’s soccer team bested the Republic of Ireland to earn a spot in Euro 2025 — their first major tournament. “I can’t put it into words. This is 20 years in the making. I wouldn’t change a second of it,” 37-year-old Jess Fishlock, who made her debut at 16, told the BBC. She added: “This is by far the proudest moment of my life.”
Gold Has Hit a New Peak — Get Investing Info From Money
If you’ve been thinking about investing in precious metals, now may be the time to actually do it. After the Federal Reserve made a bold 50 basis point rate cut, spot gold reached a peak of $2,687 per troy ounce. Experts predict this upward trend to continue, and Money can help you choose the best companies so you can get started investing.*
