The art of Wintering

I've never been a big fan of winter. The icy roads and months of coldness, bitter winds that make a morning commute in the city hard to bear and being cooped up in quarantine has made the winter months something I dread instead of look forward to. And yet, as I emerged from the post-holiday season mostly refreshed and well-rested, I realized that there is an art to wintering if we are willing to embrace it. 

Our world often moves at a rapid pace and our culture typically doesn't properly value rest and going slow. Yet, that is exactly what many of us need, especially as we continue our endurance challenge of pandemic life. The last two years have left me tired. Every day requires intense focus, patience and energy in both my personal and professional life and I have learned during this time that I need more rest. 

I am learning to reframe my view of winter and embrace the possibilities that it brings. When I was on vacation over the holidays, I took a nap and read every day. I listened to my body when I needed rest and I didn't feel guilty if my activities were limited and I didn't leave the house. I embraced going slow and looked with intention to prepare for a season of hibernation. 

There is so much symbolism to embrace in the art of wintering. It's a time to plant seeds of hope, of future goals and to embrace rest. The promise of Spring is on the horizon and the seeds planted during the winter months will blossom with time. Yet every season deserves its proper time and recognition. 

I am learning to embrace the art of wintering in an intentional way. Such as quiet walks in the snow. Hot cocoa and a warm fire. Getting absorbed in a good book that you consume in a day. Indulging in an afternoon nap. Approaching the work week slowly and with intention. Saying no to a season of structured activities and obligations to allow for the spontaneity of a weekend getaway. 

I know that when Spring blossoms start to bloom and the warmer weather starts to emerge it will bring a new energy and excitement for the year. And yet, I am not ready to skip over this season of life. By embracing the quiet, indulging in more rest and finding beauty in the stillness I hope to feel more connected to each day and more alive in the present moment. I am thankful for this season of winter and the opportunity it is providing for me to go slow with intention. May you also find respite in the art of wintering.