Why It Matters: Rest
The Natural Rhythm of Winter:
Our ancestors naturally slept more in the winter months because of the shorter days and longer nights. Without the distractions of electricity, people aligned with the earth’s rhythm, allowing themselves the necessary rest and rejuvenation during a time when energy stores were lower. The lack of artificial light meant that the natural light cycle played a significant role in signaling when it was time to sleep, making the darkness of winter a time to slow down and replenish.
Rest as a Necessity, Not a Luxury:
Resting during the winter wasn’t just about convenience; it was a necessity for survival. The long, cold nights and lack of sunlight made it essential for our ancestors to conserve energy. This kind of restorative sleep is biologically ingrained in us, yet today, society often overlooks the critical need for rest. Instead, rest is often framed as laziness in a world that values constant productivity and busyness. Recognizing the importance of seasonal rest, like our ancestors did, is crucial in combating the burnout so many experience today.
The Disconnect in Modern Society:
In our society today, there’s a cultural shift that equates sleep and rest with laziness or inefficiency. We’re encouraged to work harder, longer hours, and prioritize hustle over health. The ideal of constant productivity clashes with our biological need for rest, leading to exhaustion and chronic fatigue for many people. This disconnect between our ancestral knowledge of self-care and today’s societal pressures is a key issue to address.
What Is Wintering?
Wintering is the process of embracing rest, reflection, and renewal during the colder months. It is a time to slow down, much like nature itself. Trees shed their leaves, animals hibernate, and the Earth seems to pause. Yet, we often resist this natural rhythm, pushing through the darker, colder days with the same vigor as we do the sunlit summer ones.
The Breakdown:
The Science Behind Winter Rest:
When sunlight diminishes in the winter, the body’s natural circadian rhythms adjust. The absence of natural light triggers the production of melatonin, the sleep hormone, helping us feel sleepy and ready for rest. Without the artificial light of electricity, there was little choice but to follow this rhythm and embrace rest during the dark months.
Candlelight, Fireplaces, and Rest:
Before electricity, people relied on candles and fireplaces for light. These sources were softer and less stimulating than modern technology, creating an environment conducive to winding down and preparing for sleep. The warmth and flickering light of a fire would encourage relaxation, signaling the body that it was time for quiet, restorative rest.
Modern Society’s Effect on Rest:
In today’s fast-paced, work-driven world, rest is often seen as a sign of weakness or laziness. People are pressured to be productive around the clock, which leads to sleep deprivation and exhaustion. Reclaiming the value of rest, especially in the winter, becomes a radical act of self-care and resistance against a culture that prizes overwork.
Lessons from Wintering:
Sleep More: Allow yourself to align with the season’s rhythms. Longer nights are an invitation to rest. Prioritize sleep and give yourself permission to nap if needed.
Quiet Reflection: Use this time for introspection. Journal, meditate, or simply sit with your thoughts. Like the dormant seeds beneath the snow, winter is a time for inner growth that will bloom in the spring.
Comfort and Warmth: Create a cozy environment. Surround yourself with warmth—blankets, warm drinks, and gentle lighting—to nurture your body and spirit.
Gentle Movement: Engage in light, restorative activities. Stretching, yoga, or leisurely walks can help keep your body active without overexertion.
Mindful Acceptance: Embrace winter as it is. Let go of the pressure to be constantly productive and recognize the beauty of rest.
Rest, glorious, rest!
My Journey:
I have been feeling the need to rest and sleep much more often lately. One day, I’ll have some energy, and the next, I’ll be bone-tired. I attributed this to my chronic illnesses, new medications, and the change of season.
But last night, while asking my higher self and guides for the type of meditation I needed in that moment, I came across a YouTube Shamanic Witch Energy Healing ASMR video by Sanne, called Exhaustion Recovery & Fatigue Relief. I felt called to it, and I trusted my intuition.
Sanne (@sannethewitch) draws from the rich spiritual traditions of Sweden, likely influenced by Norse paganism, nature reverence, and folk magic. This adds a unique cultural and historical depth to her practice.
This video wasn’t merely relaxing—it was incredibly informative! She did address typical causes of fatigue, like illnesses, medications, and seasonal changes, but more importantly, she talked about the emotional elements involved. Were those watching the video in therapy? Where were they in their menstrual cycle? Did they have complicated relationships with friends, family, or family of origin? Did they feel anxiety at the beginning of trying to rest? Were they pushing themselves to work harder even when not feeling up to it? Were they resting one day and overdoing it the next, expecting different results? (Slowly raises hand.)
I realized there were many reasons why I was feeling this way. I didn’t need to feel guilty or push myself past my limits. I needed to further listen to my intuition and my body. I have been naturally allowing myself to take more naps and focus less on this blog during December and January. I didn’t feel as called to writing new posts as before, even though I was still getting daily downloads and ideas that excited me. I knew they could wait. And now, I realize I need to go deeper inside myself to heal some old wounds as they come up.
This video brought me comfort and helped me give myself permission to take winter as it comes, embrace the practice of wintering, and honor my need for rest and self-care. It's a reminder that, sometimes, the most productive thing we can do is rest and allow space for healing.
Your Turn:
As we move through the colder months, take a moment to reflect on your own relationship with rest. Are you allowing yourself the time and space to slow down, or are you pushing through exhaustion in the name of productivity? Consider how you can reconnect with the natural rhythms of winter—embracing the quiet, restful energy that our ancestors knew so well. Whether it’s taking a break during the day to rest, prioritizing sleep, or simply allowing yourself to be less busy, honoring your need for rest can help you recharge and find balance.
How will you embrace winter’s invitation to rest and restore? Share your thoughts in the comments below or take a moment to journal about what slowing down could look like for you this season.
As always, follow us on our Instagram page and tag us using #TheMindfulBalanceToolkit.
Until next time,
Ready to Dive Deeper?
Your journey doesn’t stop here! Check out our other posts and inspiring resources:
Explore more Blog Posts, browse our Resources and FAQs, learn more in the About section, reach out through our Contact page, or find your way back Home!
Sources:
"Why We Sleep" by Matthew Walker – for insights on the science of sleep and our body’s natural rhythms.
"The Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times" by Katherine May – a book that explores the concept of wintering and seasonal rest.
Articles on the effects of capitalism on sleep and well-being (e.g., from psychology or sociology journals).
Studies on burnout, such as from the American Psychological Association or National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).
Articles or studies on historical sleep patterns and the pre-electricity lifestyle, such as from history books or anthropology resources.
The History of Sleep: A Cultural Exploration by A. Roger Ekirch – for context on sleep before electricity.
Websites or blogs dedicated to shamanic healing practices, such as The Shamanic Journey or Shamanic Witchcraft.
Resources on the benefits of ASMR, such as articles from Psychology Today or Journal of Sleep Research regarding ASMR’s effects on stress and relaxation.
Research articles from institutions like Harvard Medical School or The National Sleep Foundation on the importance of rest and the circadian rhythm.
Studies about the role of light (or lack thereof) in sleep patterns, such as those from Sleep Health or similar journals.
Disclaimer: This is a safe and supportive space where vulnerability is valued. All races, religions, gender identities, sexual orientations, backgrounds, and abilities—including those with chronic illnesses, mental health conditions, PTSD, and mobility challenges—are welcome with open hearts and good intentions. Please share your thoughts with kindness. Bullying, hate speech, or harmful comments will be immediately removed without notice to maintain the integrity of this community.
Comentarios