Rest and Renewal in Winter

In nature, winter is a time of rest and renewal.

Without that space to rest, we cannot bloom strong in the spring and flourish in the summer.

Longer nights mean more time for physical rest, but the lack of daylight gives us more time for mental rest as well.  It requires some purposeful disconnection from our electronic devices to create that mental space. Reading thought-provoking books, meditation, or just sitting quietly watching a fire gives the mind time to relax and find the space to come back and be creative when it is time to plant in the spring.

One of the ways I honor this period of the year is to take a trip with my husband - our own version of a longevity holiday. We are finishing up an amazing trip to Australia. I have been able to scuba dive and swim, spending time in my happy place of salt water. We have also been able to spend time together, hiking, exploring, and just being in each other's presence, renewing and strengthening our commitment to each other. This extended period away from the normal day-to-day pressures gives my mind time to create new connections and generate new ideas.

❓Where do you build in times to rest and renew in the winter? Vacation? Quiet evenings at home? Hiking in the snow? Something else?