By: Emma Shandy Anway
After what felt like the longest, hottest summer to date in Yolo County, the rain and cold have returned and—I don’t know about you but—I couldn’t be happier to be in sweater weather.
As well as a fun wardrobe change and endless puddle jumping, this season offers a beautiful opportunity to fully embrace rest and slow down. To enter into a time of “wintering”.
Wintering, a term popularized by Katherine May in her book of the same name, is not just about the literal season. It’s a metaphor for choosing to step back from the relentless pace of modern life, and fully lean into the coziness that comes with the cold.
I know that feels easier said than done, especially since mainstream culture often pushes us toward productivity year-round, and taking time for introspection and rest can be written off as laziness or weakness. Yet research shows that moments of pause and seasons of slowing down are crucial for mental health, creativity, and overall well-being.
“Wintering can be a time to rediscover yourself,” psychologist Dr. Julia Morales writes. “It’s in the stillness that we process emotions, heal from challenges, and envision what’s next.”
When we ignore the need to slow down, we risk burnout, chronic stress, and even physical illness. The need to seek light, connect with nature, and balance activity with rest becomes even more essential during winter when we face seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
This winter, let’s resist the urge to fast-forward to spring. Let’s embrace the art of wintering and discover the transformative power of slowing down.
Practical ways to winter:
- Lean in to solitude: Take time to sit with your thoughts. Journaling or meditative practices can help untangle complex emotions.
- Cultivate warmth: Surround yourself with things that bring comfort—soft blankets, warm drinks, and the company of loved ones.
- Reflect and plan: Use the quiet moments to assess your goals and set intentions for the coming months.
- Embrace the holidays: Decorate your home, host a cookie decorating party, or go caroling around the neighborhood.
