The Season for Wintering
Amidst the holiday preparations, December is a month of reflection, retreat, a low candlelight in the darkest month of the year. It is a time for retreat, for family, for hygge as the Danish refer to it.
Yet the darkness can often be unwelcome. We often push through wintering and dark times, solely looking for the light and illumination immediately. We long for the light, the long days of summer and warmth.
Yes, winter can arrive without warning and desire. It can be lonely, painful, dark, unclear on our paths. Yet like the seasons, no life is without darkness. No journey is without rest.
In her book “Wintering”, Katherine May states “Wintering brings about some of the most profound and insightful moments of our human experience, and wisdom resides in those who have wintered...We must learn to invite the winter in. We may never choose to winter, but we can choose how.”
In this season of winter, choose how to reflect and renew. Perhaps it is journaling, or connecting with a friend, family member, or helping professional. It may be reading, or listening to music, or connecting with the natural world. Curiosity and reflections most certainly are involved. A deep self-compassion is a guest in this invitation as well. Invite the winter in, embrace your story, and emerge in the spring with a new ending in that new beginning.
*Please note: Please consult a qualified mental health professional if your season of wintering requires outside help. There is never shame in asking for help from someone else to help light the candle in our darkest periods. We can refer you to appropriate resources as needed.
