I came across a quote – that for me – expresses how I feel – on these cold winter days.

This is how it goes – “I’m pretty sure some humans were intended to hibernate all winter – I’m also sure – that I am one of those humans. Wake me in April”.

It seems as though I’m not the only one who feels this way in our family – our little dog does too – spending far longer simply curled up in a ball – content to sleep the days away.

Of course – I am fortunate – in that I don’t have to venture out to work everyday. If I chose – I too could curl into a ball – and sleep the day away. However – that would simply not be good for me – and in fact – doesn’t really sum up my idea of – ‘hibernating’.

Maybe – a better word for it is – ‘wintering’ – which essentially means – a time for us to adapt – and rejuvenate – to rest – and reflect – and I like that.

To quote – “We can’t rush any season – let alone winter. So – let it do it’s job. Slowly – slowly. Wintering is there to help us adapt – and rejuvenate – rest and reflect – put the house in order. Spring will surely come in time”

We’re used to the idea of nature adapting to the winter – yet – at times I find myself still trying to live – as though it was still the summer – almost fighting against the fact that I feel the need to – ‘hibernate’ – as it were – and maybe – even feeling guilty for feeling that way.

But – winter is all about recognising change – and adapting – as this description puts it –

” Winter is —- The time to reflect – on what has happened – and what’s to come —- The understanding that – silence possesses a kind of wisdom —- The bridge between – letting go – and embracing growth —- The knowledge – that slowing down is necessary —- The belief that – even the darkest of times will pass —- The season of rest- of making room – for what will come”.

I do find it difficult at times to readily adapt – especially to the winter season – I guess because I want to prolong those warmer – lighter – longer days.

I am much more ready to greet the spring – to adapt to that season – and all it enables me to do. But – there would be no spring – without the winter.

And so – I enter into my ‘wintering’ – seeking to adapt – to reflect – and learn – allowing the quiet to sink into my soul – to connect with my inner self – and embracing the time given to me – being grateful for the times of rest – and welcoming the winter for what it is – as expressed here – “Winter is a time of cold and quiet beauty. It is a time of hibernation – dormancy – and rest. It is a time to connect with our inner selves.”

Blessings – Lois