“Wintering”

For many people, (especially mothers, I see you) the run-up to Christmas is anything but restful.
Planning, organizing, carrying the mental load, making it magical, keeping it all going and everyone happy.
And then straight away in January there’s pressure from society, from social media to reset, go hard, be motivated, be better.

So if energy is low or your body wants quieter days, that makes sense in this cold and dark season.

Of course it can still feel good to eat better, move your body, find your rhythm again after Christmas. “Wintering” is not about being a hermit, but it certainly can if you need to go in that direction. Getting outside to take a walk, get some exercise and clean fresh air can be so healthful and exhilarating.
That’s care, not punishment.

January gets framed as a fresh start, but for many people it’s actually the most depleted month of the year. The holidays leave us tired, overextended, and emotionally wrung out. Sleep schedules are off, immune systems are run down, and bank accounts are often strained. Add in short days and gray skies, and it’s no wonder that launching ambitious life changes in January can feel more punishing than motivating.

It’s also peak season for sickness and fatigue. Bodies are fighting colds, flu, and lingering stress while being asked to wake up earlier, move more, eat perfectly, and suddenly “optimize” everything. Cold weather stiffens joints and saps energy, while limited sunlight affects mood and focus. Instead of listening to what our bodies are asking for—rest, warmth, nourishment—we often push harder, convinced discipline is the cure for exhaustion.

This is why January is better suited for self-care than self-reinvention. True care means tending to the body with gentle movement, wholesome food, and adequate sleep, not punishing routines. It means caring for the mind by easing expectations, allowing slower mornings if possible, and reducing the constant pressure to improve. And it means honoring your soul by embracing stillness, reflection, prayer and meditation, rather than relentless productivity.

Real change doesn’t need to begin in the harshest, darkest part of the year. It can start quietly, slowly, peacefully. When energy returns—when light increases and bodies feel stronger—intentions naturally take shape. January isn’t a test of willpower; it’s an invitation to rest, recalibrate, and care deeply for body, mind, and spirit so growth can happen in its own time.

If you are ill or just bone-tired right now and need some inspiration on how to get healing and restoration, check out the blogpost Get Some Rest.

In addition to this, if you are struggling with a cold, flu or any type of illness, read Colds and Flu, a common sense approach to keeping your immune system strong.

I have also written a comprehensive article on dealing with Post Covid and/or Long Covid, as well as articles on how to make Fire Cider and Bone Broth, 2 supportive treatments you can create at home for strength and healing.

When January arrives and motivation is low, that’s wintering doing its work!