As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, we are reminded of the powerful shift that occurs during the colder months. The winter solstice—the shortest day and longest night of the year—marks a pivotal turning point in the natural cycle. For centuries, this day has been celebrated as a time of reflection, rest, and renewal. It is also a perfect moment to embrace the concept of "wintering."
What Is Wintering?
Wintering is all about leaning into life’s natural rhythms—slowing down, retreating, and allowing space for rest and reflection. Popularized by Katherine May in her book Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times, the term encourages us to embrace rest rather than resist it. Just as nature pauses and retreats during winter, we too can benefit from taking time to restore our energy and reflect on our inner selves.
Wintering isn’t limited to the physical season; it can also refer to personal seasons of challenge or change. These moments of pause can feel uncomfortable, but they are often opportunities for growth, healing, and transformation.
The Winter Solstice: A Time of Reflection
In the Northern Hemisphere, the winter solstice falls on December 21st or 22nd, when the sun reaches its lowest point in the sky. While the day itself is brief, it carries with it the promise of more light ahead. Many cultures and traditions celebrate this day with rituals that honor the balance of light and dark, as well as the promise of renewal.
For example:
Yule (Pagan and Wiccan traditions) involves lighting candles, decorating evergreen trees, and gathering with loved ones to welcome the return of the sun.
Dongzhi Festival (East Asian traditions) celebrates the longest night with family gatherings and warm, nourishing foods.
Indigenous celebrations often honor the solstice with ceremonies and stories that connect communities to the cycles of nature.
At its core, the solstice invites us to pause, take stock of the past year, and set intentions for the season ahead. It’s a time to let go of what no longer serves us and welcome the possibilities that come with a fresh start.
How to Embrace Wintering and the Solstice
If you’re ready to align yourself with the energy of winter, here are some practices to consider:
Create Space for Stillness
Spend some time with your thoughts. Whether it’s journaling, meditating, or simply sitting in silence, this quiet connection can help you tune into what’s happening within.
Honor the Darkness
Light a candle, cozy up by the fire, or dim the lights for a calm, nurturing atmosphere. Let the quiet wrap around you like a warm blanket.
Celebrate Light and Renewal
Mark the solstice with a simple ritual. Light a candle and set an intention for the coming months—what would you like to nurture as the days grow longer?
Nourish Yourself
Support your body with warming soups, herbal teas, and grounding foods. Surround yourself with things that bring comfort, whether that’s a favorite book, a soothing playlist, or a snuggle under a soft blanket.
Connect with Nature
Even in the cold, nature has lessons to share. Take a mindful walk and notice the stillness around you. There’s beauty in the resilience of the natural world.
Set Intentions
Look back on the past year—what did you learn? What do you want to bring with you into the next chapter? Write down your intentions or goals for the year ahead.
The Gift of Winter
Wintering and the solstice remind us that rest isn’t indulgent—it’s essential. Just as the earth uses winter to prepare for spring, we can use this time to care for ourselves and plant seeds for growth.
So as the longest night approaches, give yourself permission to slow down. Light a candle, soak in the stillness, and trust that brighter days are on their way. Sometimes, the most meaningful progress happens in the quiet.
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