Wintering

January often feels heavy. You’re recovering from Christmas, and at the same time there is an unspoken expectation to start afresh- reset, make resolutions, to decide what will be different for 2026 and what you are planning to achieve. For most of us it’s just, too much.

Recently I have noticed a lot of conversations regarding wintering (clearly my algorithms are working in my favour). I have reread Katherine May’s book “Wintering” and it made so much sense reading this in the depths of winter (I originally read this in summer with a much different energy level).

The idea is so simple but so powerful; in the middle of winter, other animals slow down. They are conserving energy; some are even hibernating. As human animals, perhaps we are meant to do the same- respect the season we are in rather than fight against it.

We talk often about eating seasonally, listening to our bodies and living in tune with our natural rhythms. Wintering is exactly the same - allowing ourselves to follow the season rather than the calendar. Right now, the idea of wrapping up under a blanket with my loved ones in front of a warm fire feels more nourishing than starting a diet or learning Spanish.

Just because its a new calendar year doesn’t mean the season has changed. Spring is when nature wakes up all fresh, renewed, and ready to grow. Perhaps thats when rhythmically we’re meant to look ahead, set goals and make plans.

This year I have set no new year resolutions. Instead I am allowing myself time, space and permission to rest- to recover and recharge for the spring.  Trusting that when spring arrives, energy and clarity will return.