Wintering ourselves: the art of rest, reflection, & renewal
There’s a narrative that tells us life should be a long summer. Bright, joyful, productive, and brimming with achievement. But what if our inner lives are more like nature itself, changing with the seasons? This is the idea behind emotional wintering: the practice of honouring the quieter, sometimes tougher periods of life as necessary and healing, rather than something to rush through or resist.
In nature, winter is a period of rest that makes the cyclical way of life possible. Trees drop their leaves not because they’re dead, but because they’re conserving precious energy to sprout again. Emotional wintering invites us to treat ourselves with the same logic and compassion.
At its heart, emotional wintering asks us to slow down and sit with our inner experience, even the uncomfortable parts, in the same intentional way we prepare our homes and bodies for winter weather. It’s about acknowledging that difficult emotions, low energy, hardship, and introspection are seasons of life, not obstacles to permanent happiness.
In our culture of constant productivity and ‘good vibes only,’ moments of sadness or low energy can make us feel as though we’ve failed. Should we be further along, happier, or more resilient? But the truth is more cyclical: emotions ebb and flow just like the seasons. By preparing for and allowing winter periods, we can emerge more grounded and ready for growth when spring arrives.
Wintering is restorative presence. It’s the courage to face the less pleasant emotions and make space for them. In doing so, we build self-compassion, deepen emotional maturity, and tune into a natural rhythm of life rather than fight against it.
How to Winter Yourself with Care
Here are ways to embrace your inner season, gently and meaningfully:
Slow Your Pace
Resist the urge to hustle when you feel worn. Instead, let your rhythm match your energy, perhaps that means shorter days at work, pausing ambitious projects, or embracing solitude when you need it most.
Create Comforting Rituals
Just as we reach for blankets and warm soups in winter, create simple rituals that nourish your spirit: candle-lit evenings, mindful journaling, nurturing food, gentle walks in nature.
Step Back from Comparison
Social media often tells only the highlight reel. Wintering asks you to focus inward, resisting the pressure to appear perpetually joyful.
Stay Connected on Your Terms
While you may feel like retreating, gentle connection—a phone call with a trusted friend or a quiet walk with someone you love—can bring comfort without overwhelm. Balance resting alone with being supported together.
KIN TAKEAWAY
A Reminder to Carry Forward
You are not broken because you feel tired.
You are not failing because life feels heavy.
You are wintering, and winter has purpose.