Research shows that in winter, many of us experience lower energy, feel sleepier, and require more rest due to our limited exposure to sunlight. Furthermore, cold weather slows our circulation leaving us chilled, which can lead some people to experience more aches and pains (I know this firsthand from living with someone with a chronic illness). The seasonal changes may also lead to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), decreasing our motivation and increasing feelings of social withdrawal.
All of this is completely normal, as it is our body’s way of responding to the changes in nature’s rhythm.
If you are experiencing any or all of these effects of the changing seasons, you may be inclined to burrow down inside your home, hibernate for a couple of weeks, or even months, and come out when spring arrives. Unfortunately, that is not an option for many – if any – of us. So, instead, we fight against our nature and push ourselves into a cold and dark world in a society founded on constant unending productivity (wow! That escalated quickly!).
There are, however, things we CAN do to live more in tune with the current season. Below are some suggestions collected from various books and articles I have come across in the past weeks and months which have all introduced me to the art of ‘Wintering’.
Do less
Wintering to me means working with my low energy. So, ask yourself what you CAN do and what you can do less of, and say no to anything that is not essential. And try to work on accepting imperfection, embracing the fact that we, as human beings, are limited and imperfect.
Slow down and focus on the things that matter to you. Shift your perspective from hyper-productivity, money and success to the things that make you, you. This is not a time for busyness but for slowing down and reflecting on what you want to be and do in the new year. (Which doesn’t start until spring, so don’t stress, you have time!)
Rituals
Try incorporating rituals into your daily life such as yoga (my essential morning ritual), meditation, prayer, journaling, walking or anything that strikes your fancy. I recently set up an alter in my home and every evening I light the candles I have placed there and sit in meditation for 10-15 minutes.
Another ritual that I personally love – but which I admit is not for everyone – is to spend the first 30 minutes of my morning in silence. This doesn’t just mean no talking, but more importantly means no tv or phone/social media.
Celebrate
There is something to be said for celebrating the little things. Like the slow return of the light, a homecooked meal – eaten slowly and deliberately, or snow – before it turns to slush. Try cultivating a childlike sense of wonder and enchantment by asking yourself: What is beautiful and/or magical about this moment?
Nature
Wintering and generally living more in tune with nature becomes easier when you actually spend time with nature – and remember you too are nature. Consider taking up birdwatching. A hobby I myself practice by simply watching the birds that come to my birdfeeders, from the comfort of my couch. Or venture outside on a clear night to go stargazing, allowing the cold to remind you how exhilarating it is to be alive.
Get outside – even if it is just to walk to and from work and try to notice the subtle shifts in the season as you ready yourself for the return of spring. Start a practice of noticing glimmers – the small moments that spark joy or peace, which can help cue our nervous system to feel safe or calm.
Movement
Starting a movement habit – not exercising, just moving – is something that pairs well with spending time in nature. Instead of committing to a gym or a certain running distance or weight goal, commit to taking care of yourself.
Ask yourself: What activities do I enjoy? Low or high energy? Solo or in company? Inside or outdoors? Maybe pick a few that are energizing and a few that are more low intensity. For an energizing movement practice I can highly recommend living room-dancing in your pj’s.
Rest
Speaking of taking care of yourself, remember that rest is essential. Especially at this time of year. Remember, you are nature and most of nature is currently hibernating. So, commit to prioritizing sleep and rest as your body has an increased need for it.
Community
And remember many of the above suggestions are best done in a community with others. Our hyper-individualised society will have us focus on ourselves and ‘self-care’ – which, as an introvert, I DO have a need for. However, humans are social beings, and we mustn’t forget that when wintering.
So, reach out to your friends and family – who are most likely feeling the same as you. Go around to your neighbours and ask them if they need help – especially on snowy days. Or invite friends and family over for hot drinks and cake.
Prepare
Last, but not least try and spend some time laying the foundations for what comes next. For me, that looks like dreaming about and planning the coming season in my balcony garden. Looking up specific plants or colours I would like to incorporate this year. For others, it might look like repairing or readying the gear they need for hobbies better pursued in warmer weather.