"Wintering is a time of withdrawing from the world, maximizing scant resources, carrying out acts of brutal efficiency, and vanishing from sight; but that's where the transformation occurs."
– Katherine May, "Wintering"
The Art of Slowing Down: November’s Intention
As we enter November, nature invites us to pause and slow down. Trees shed their last leaves, animals prepare for hibernation, and the world around us seems to soften. In a culture that often pushes us to rush, perform, and produce, November is a call to embrace the concept of wintering—the practice of living in tune with natural cycles, allowing ourselves time to rest, reflect, and restore.
Embracing the Rhythm of the Season
Wintering reminds us that just like the earth, we too have seasons that call for slower, gentler energies. When we honor these rhythms, we align with the wisdom of nature, allowing time for introspection and renewal. Rather than filling every minute, slowing down means embracing rest as part of our natural process of growth and rejuvenation.
Living in harmony with the seasons encourages us to let go of the need for constant activity. Just as nature pulls inward to prepare for spring, we can also retreat, nourish ourselves, and embrace this season as a time to replenish. Here are a few ways to ease into a slower rhythm and embrace November’s intention of slowing down:
Rituals for Slowing Down
1. Morning rituals:
Begin your day with a gentle, grounding practice—whether that’s a slow, mindful cup of tea, a few moments of journaling, or a morning stretch. Starting your day this way helps you set a calm tone for everything that follows.
2. Digital detox:
Slowing down often means creating space in our minds, too. Set boundaries around digital consumption, take phone-free moments, or even schedule an “unplugged day” each week to allow for real rest without distractions.
3. Mindful & slow cooking:
Try cooking with seasonal ingredients. Slower cooking, like simmering soups or baking bread, not only brings a sense of warmth and grounding but also gives you a mindful way to enjoy the rhythm of the season.
4. Reflective journaling:
Take some time to reflect on the year so far—what you’ve accomplished, what you’ve learned, and what you want to let go of. A simple practice could be jotting down three things you’re grateful for each day, centering yourself on the quiet joys of life.
5. Nature connection
Even as the weather cools, spend time outside when you can. Nature walks, bundled up in cozy layers, remind us of the natural cycles of life and allow us to slow down in harmony with the world around us.
Go slow + embrace wintering
As we practice wintering, we nurture our inner well-being and learn that there is strength in stillness. Slowing down creates space for us to listen to our needs, find gratitude in the small moments, and prepare our hearts for the new beginnings waiting in the spring. By aligning with November’s energy, we connect with the deeper purpose of this season and give ourselves permission to be at peace with the pace of life
