Nature’s patterns offer hints to us as to how we might live our lives. In spring, we find an opportune time to be planting, seeding, and bringing forth new ideas; in summer, the conditions are ripe for working and playing; in fall, we can be harvesting and nesting; and in winter, we might just want to hunker down and hibernate.
With sunshine minimal, temperatures low, and perhaps a pot of stew slowly bubbling—a cold, winter day is a time not to focus on feeling blue or withdrawn but to take time to rest, practice introspection, learn, and contemplate.
Here are a few ways to enjoy a season of hibernation:
Rest
The holidays tend to be a busy and stimulating time. Now that the glittery decor has been put away and the calendar is looking a bit more clear, take a cue from the sun and incorporate more rest into your schedule. Might you allow yourself more sleep at night or an afternoon nap? Even a simple afternoon with a cup of tea and a cozy blanket can be rejuvenating. Settle in for some winter’s rest.Read
If you’ve already got the tea and the blanket, all you need is a good book. Winter is a wonderful time to nurture your mind with quality literature or inspiring works of nonfiction. Make outings to the library or your local bookstore a staple activity this season and spend plenty of time simply reading.Write
Wherever you read, keep a notebook and some lovely pens on hand for jotting down thoughts and ideas. Journaling regularly can have an inspiring effect on your life—allowing you to process your thoughts, recall good ideas, hone your focus, appreciate your blessings, and reach toward your personal goals. Additionally, you create in the process a keepsake that can be cherished and reviewed in the future. The winter season allows for time to think and ponder, and writing while you do enhances the experience for the better.Nourish
Winter beckons us to nurture our minds, spirits, and bodies. Keep the pantry stocked with the makings of warm and hearty meals. Soups, stews, and roasts can be enjoyed in large batches and made from high-quality, fresh ingredients. Take time to put loving care into your food prep and keep you and your family well-nourished all winter long.Catch the Sun
The sun disappears early each day at this time. Embracing the concept of hibernation doesn’t mean you should actually hibernate like a bear in a cave. Be sure to adjust your schedule to get out into the fresh air before it departs each day. Perhaps you can take a stroll at lunchtime or a break during the day at a local park. Even parking far away from entrances as you run errands during the day can increase your time outside while the sun is up. When you can enjoy winter activities outside such as skiing or sledding, go for it.Rejuvenate
The key to making the most of the winter season is to rejuvenate your whole self. Embrace hibernation. Slow down, take care, and emerge in the spring refreshed and ready to plant new seeds and bring forth a new you.
