So many struggle with this time of year. The winter months are long, cold, and for many, are a source of dread. There are so many names for the slump you can fall into during winter.
Winter Blues.
Cabin Fever.
Temporary Insanity.
Seasonal Affective Disorder. (S.A.D.)
When you live in an area that gets stretches of 40 days without sunshine, it can be easy to fall into feelings of drudgery. While there are some other factors that go into issues with S. A. D., keeping a positive mindset about the moment we are in is key to avoiding some of these downtrodden feelings.
“It was you who set all the boundaries of the earth; you made both summer and winter”
Psalm 74:17
This season has a purpose. It was intentional. Winter is designed for all things in nature to rest. The trees, the birds, the insects, even the microbes in the soil all slow down and accept the season they are in.
Shouldn’t we do the same?
Our society is so focused on schedules, productivity, doing more, being more, spending more… That we have completely lost sight of what a gift this season of rest is.
We complain when the weather impedes on our traffic (maybe you should slow your driving).
Or if the roads are too icy for travel (perhaps you need an unplanned day at home).
I’m just as guilty.
However, this year I’ve tried to make a more conscious effort to enjoy the slow living that winter offers. We all have the freedom to make our own choices, and we CHOOSE our attitude towards everything under the sun. Even how we view winter.
The last days before spring.
I would encourage you, during these last few days before spring begins to make mindful decisions to rest, relax, and recharge.
Some of my favorite “slow living” ideas include:
Going for a walk.
Even in the cold weather. Bundle up well and take time to notice the sounds you hear, the way nature looks as it’s resting, and take time to enjoy the fresh air.
Enjoy a hot cup of tea.
I prefer loose leaf tea and often make my own blends with herbs and flowers from the garden. The ritual of heating the water, choosing the herbs and fragrance blends, and holding onto your warm mug as you await the perfect temperature for drinking is so relaxing and precious.
Bake fresh bread.
And make sure to enjoy it while it’s hot. There is something magical about warm, fresh bread that melts the butter as you eat it. I swear. It’s good for your soul. Trust me! (Check out our artisan bread recipe!)
Take time with your family.
Spend time with your children. Unconnected. Turn off the TV, computers, and collect all devices. Build a fort, play a board game, or spend time together baking in the kitchen. Take the time to reconnect, laugh, and learn something new you may have missed about each other.
Enjoy these days, and remember that they will only last for so long.
“As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night with never cease.”
Genesis 8:22
How are you enjoying winter? Have you picked up any new hobbies or skills to occupy your time?
I have always loved fall and winter. I loved when my girls were little and it would get dark early and we would make forts on the living room and a peep hole and watch movies and cartoons we recorded on vhs from the weekend before. Or have a big snow storm and be stuck at home with no school. Play outside, then warm up and play board games or cards. I now share board games and cards with my grandkids. My 2nd grandson will pick 5 games and we will play 4 times each game. I have always loved the special bonding time of fall and winter. Love walking with my husband too in a beautiful snow fall.
❤
This is good! So often we are so caught up in looking ahead at what’s coming, counting the days to spring and summer, longing for warm weather that we miss the beauty of the moment. Slow down, rest, enjoy your family within the walls of your home. Hunker down and be present with them. Warm days and busyness will be here before you know it!
Absolutely!