Embracing the winter slowdown; rest more, reflect more and be
Last week I’ve been feeling a bit frozen. Not in a dramatic way, but like the quiet sensation of life slowing down instead of moving forward. And that’s okay. Actually, it makes perfect sense this time of year.
Winter has its own wisdom. Nature slows down. Like the trees, holding their energy deep within the earth, preparing quietly for what’s to come. Yet we often feel pressured by the noise of new year’s resolutions, the constant push for productivity and growth. But what if we didn’t need to push? What if stillness was the answer? Rest when you can, reflect when you can and be.
Winter is deeply connected to the element of water and the kidneys, which hold our core energy, our essence. It’s a time for restoration, reflection and nourishment, not for forcing forward motion. Stagnation can feel like heaviness, low motivation or even a creative block.
So what to do? Sometimes, the best thing isn’t to do more but to simply be more. To allow ourselves to settle into the stillness without guilt. Reflection is healing. Yet, if you feel the need to gently shift your energy like I do, there are beautiful, subtle ways to support your body and mind without pushing.
One simple practice I love is gently massaging the Kidney 1 acupressure point. It’s located on the sole of your foot, just below the ball of your foot, right in the center. Massaging this spot helps to ground you, calm the mind, and gently activate the energy flow when things feel blocked.
Warming foods can also be incredibly supportive during this time of year. Think broths, root vegetables and lots of dark leafy greens, foods that nurture the kidneys and keep us grounded like ginger tea. A hot water bottle is my personal fave and another comforting way to stay warm and support your body during winter's stillness.
Lastly, there’s something truly beautiful about creative hobbies and in my opinion, they are often underestimated. Whether it’s journaling, painting, reading or simply taking a slow walk in nature, these activities offer a chance to reconnect. Go offline, explore your curiosity and follow it even in small ways. It can spark something within… a sense of lightness or inspiration that gently shifts your energy! These quiet moments of presence help dissolve feelings of stuckness without force, reminding us that movement can be as subtle as a single deep breath.
Personal book tips:
- The Body by Ajahn Sundara, Candasiri, Metta
- The Way of Rest by Jeff Foster
- The Wild Silence by Raynor Winn
- Atomic Habits by James Clear or The 5 AM Club by Robin Sharma I’ve been following an early morning routine throughout both the summer and winter periods and it’s made a big difference for me in the past. The routine I created has helped me stay focused, establish a steady rhythm and set the tone for my day. These books can help you create a personalized morning routine if you're looking for one during the winter months.
