Wintering: Embracing 'Winter' and making the best of shorter days

In the Northern hemisphere, we are now in that time of year when the vibrant colours of autumn and winter’s arrival grow more apparent. The clocks have just adjusted to winter time, and night falls earlier each day.

I love both the cold and the heat, going through the seasons and enjoying the beauty of each, feeling the warmth of the sun on my face as well as the crisp smell of winter tinged with roasted chestnuts :)

But, truthfully, I can’t stand the endless grey days without sunlight. Like many, I know my mood is about to dip and my motivation will wane. It’s a natural response, and no amount of positive thinking will make the sun stay a bit longer in the sky. This is when I most miss my home country of Portugal, and there is no escaping it, for I (like many of you) have chosen to live somewhere else...

So, you have two options: let winter's darkness drag you down and just complain about it (ok, I still do a bit), or get ready to deal with and even maybe enjoy it. I choose the latter :) I prefer to claim to me the power to live my life as I choose, even when surrounded by circumstances I cannot control.

Recently, following a client’s suggestion, I’ve been reading Wintering, a deep and thought-provoking book about how to face the inevitable seasons of challenge, not just in the year but in life. Inspired by it, let’s explore how we can not only endure the season but perhaps even embrace it.

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Here are 5 tips to help you adapt, slow down, and make the best out of the shorter days this fall and winter :D

1. Plan for Natural Light and Embrace the Outdoors

The diminished daylight impacts our mood due to reduced exposure to natural light, which influences our body’s production of serotonin. That's written into our biology. To counter this, make the most of daylight hours—even if brief. Schedule a short walk during midday or set up your workspace near a window (I do this one). On weekends, plan activities that take you outside, even if it’s just a trip to the park or a forest. Natural light, even in small doses, can have a surprisingly uplifting effect. [Curious about SAD-Seasonal Affective Disorder? Check this article]

Pro-tip: Light therapy lamps can be a great addition, particularly for those working indoors. Studies have shown that light therapy can effectively boost mood and energy levels by simulating the sunlight we’re missing - and my neighbour also swears on it ;) .

2. Adapt Your Schedule and Pace to Winter’s Rhythms

With shorter days, it’s unrealistic to expect ourselves to operate at the same intensity as during the summer. Instead of pushing against nature’s rhythm (by the way, that's your body's rhythm too), try embracing it by slowing down. Plan your work in a way that accounts for more frequent breaks and extra downtime. Accept that you may feel less energetic in winter—this is perfectly normal and even beneficial.

Pro-tip: Winter can be an ideal time to focus on tasks requiring reflection or creativity. With the world outside slowing down, it’s easier to dive deep into projects that need attention without the rush of a full calendar. That may include reflecting on your own well-being and deciding on what direction and actions would like to take to upgrade your life and career, wherever you are (for some support, just book a call with me to discuss it).

3. Nourish Your Body with Seasonal Foods

Eating seasonal, nutrient-dense foods provides the body with the warmth and energy needed to keep spirits high. My favourite winter vegetables include pumpkins, root vegetables (I just love parsnips and sweet potatoes) and some dark leafy greens (usually in my hot soup), which are not only comforting but also packed with nutrients that can support your immune system and mood. Plus, warm meals are a winter staple for a reason—they help us feel grounded and cosy (that's when the Dutch 'stamppot' finally makes sense).

Pro-tip: Try adding omega-3-rich foods to your diet, such as fish or chia seeds. Omega-3s have been shown to support mental health and cognitive function, both of which can suffer during darker months. I often go for my salmon and canned mackerel!

4. Reconnect with Indoor Hobbies and Practices of Self-Care

Winter is an excellent opportunity to reconnect with hobbies that bring you comfort indoors, that 'gezellig' feeling. This could be reading, journaling, cooking, or starting a winter-themed project. I generally go back to my crochet and jigsaw puzzle-making. Engaging in activities that require slower, deliberate focus can act as a natural remedy for the urge to hibernate.

‍Practising self-care, whether through relaxation, meditation or a warm bath, allows your mind and body to rest. Pampering is fully allowed! :)

Pro-tip: Consider adopting mindfulness practices. Research shows that mindfulness can significantly improve mood, reduce stress, and even help you find joy in the darker days of winter ;) Start small (just 5 minutes of full attention) and grow slowly but steadily; speed is not an element at this time of the year.

5. Embrace Community and Connection

Humans are social creatures, and the winter season is the perfect time to build and cherish connections. Even for introverts! Reach out to friends, host cosy gatherings, or join local events. Sharing stories, laughter, and even commiserating about the weather can be surprisingly uplifting. We’re all in this winter cycle together, so make it a time to build stronger bonds and find comfort in shared experiences. Even if you choose to do it with one other person at a time.

Pro-tip: Consider setting up a weekly gathering with friends or family, even virtually, to discuss books or enjoy a meal together. This can create a routine you look forward to, adding warmth to the coldest days, no matte where you are.

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I doubt winter will ever be everyone’s favourite season, and that’s alright. Yet by allowing yourself to slow down, adapting and building habits that nurture both your mind and body, we can transform these shorter and darker days into a warm season of introspection and comfort. Embrace this coming rhythm of 'winter', and you might find it brings gifts of its own. I have started with my delicious roasted chestnuts ;) What will you do to enjoy it?