winter is for rest

For the past decade, an embodied value for me has been intentionally connecting to the natural world. One of the best ways I do that is by tuning in and mirroring the distinct energy each season brings.

We are currently approaching the year's darkest day, followed by the winter season.

As a younger woman, I resisted the cold, dark winter season. I recall repeatedly voicing the desire to live somewhere else where the sun would shine year-round. No winter. Flip-flops every day.

I reserve the right to change my mind.

After a decade of mirroring the seasons while living in my food forest and now in an actual forest beside the sea, I welcome winter. I have heard this season called “the fertile void…”, which seems very apt. Nature slows her hive of activity. This essential resting time must occur so growth can explode when the light and warmth return come spring. A built-in time of rest, a permission slip to slow down, to sit and dream by a fire, to get to bed early… An invitation to recharge. Time to reflect on the year that has passed and dream of what might come to be.

After the Solstice, you will find me engaging in some (probably all) of the ideas below to engage meaningfully with this season:

Going for walks in nature without my phone and breathing in the cold fresh air during these darker days.

This is the perfect season to reflect, dream, and plan, so I will play in my journal. “When the soul wants to experience something, she throws out an image before her and steps into it…”

Bringing in evergreen branches that have blown down outside to honour the winter season. I will place these winter bouquets thoughtfully throughout my home in jars or vases to serve as winter “Remembering Places.”

These “Remembering Places” remind me that I am not separate from Nature. I witness the plant and animal world slowing down and resting. I am wise to do the same. During this time of year, there is a frenzy of activity, buying, and late nights. Not for me anymore. Engaging with the wisdom and rhythm of nature regenerates me for what is to come as the light returns to our days…

Rest now. Go and grow time later. Our ancestors knew to stop and honour this darkest day and then slow down for the season. Taking inspiration from their example, I will do the same. I receive the gift of rest that winter brings.

May your mug of tea be full and your fire be warm.