The Art of Wintering
Intentionally embracing a season of hibernation
I hope everyone had a fabulous start to the holiday season. Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays because it offers an intentional opportunity to pause and give thanks. This year was particularly special as my family celebrated together for the first time in a while. One of the main reasons we relocated to Colorado this year was to be closer to family, and it was amazing to spend part of the week at my favorite resort near the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. There’s a magic in those majestic rocks that calms my spirit every time I visit.
And as the year draws to a close, I’m excited to embrace an intentional season of slowing down. A few years ago, during the pandemic, I discovered Wintering by Katherine May, and it completely changed how I see winter.
Historically, winter was one of my least favorite seasons—especially living on the East Coast, where bitter cold and harsh winds seemed endless. But over the last few years, I’ve come to appreciate the art of wintering and the possibilities it offers, if we’re willing to embrace them.
In a world that values busyness, it can feel uncomfortable to slow down. Yet, that is exactly what many of us need, especially as we continue our endurance challenge in this noisy world we live in. Even though this year has brought many exciting changes, I feel the weight of it all as the days grow darker. My body craves more rest.
And while it’s not technically winter for a few more weeks, I’m reframing this season as an opportunity—a time to go inward, to slow down, and to prepare with intention for a season of hibernation. In the coming months, I plan to prioritize naps, dive into some good books (and hopefully do some inspired writing), and listen to my body when it needs stillness. I’m giving myself permission to limit my activities, to stay home more often, and to not feel guilty about doing less.
There’s profound symbolism in wintering. It’s a time to plant seeds of hope and future goals while embracing the rest that will help them grow. Spring will come, with its blossoms and fresh energy, but every season deserves its own time and recognition.
For me, the art of wintering means finding joy in simple, restorative activities: quiet walks in the snow, sipping hot cocoa filled with marshmallows, devouring a book in one sitting, indulging in an afternoon nap, or approaching the workweek with intention rather than urgency. It’s about saying no to overpacked schedules and structured obligations, leaving space for spontaneity and renewal.
When spring arrives, I know I’ll welcome it with fresh energy and excitement. But I’m not rushing ahead. This upcoming season of stillness deserves to be fully experienced. By slowing down, resting more, and finding beauty in the quiet moments, I hope to feel more present and alive.
I’m thankful for a season of winter that is just around the corner and the chance it offers to embrace slowness with intention. May you, too, find respite in the art of wintering.
For the world needs who you were made to be.
Cheers!
Jenn
P.S. If you’re looking for some inspiration to support your own hibernation, here are a few books I’d recommend.
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I love this idea but it’s hard to do! As soon as I complete tasks, new ideas tend to swoop into the vacuum. Will you keep a journal to capture the inspiration that comes to you as you winter? Or will you not worry about that but simply allow your mind to wander? This does sound like a healing period.