Embracing Stillness: 4 Ways to Slow Down This Season

At this time of year when it gets darker earlier, our neighborhoods that were a vibrant mix of warm tones and clear blue skies seem to suddenly slip into dreary grays and browns. The wind is sharper and colder. The wildlife hibernates. Even the leaves on the trees won’t reappear until spring. Everything in nature is slowing down. Maybe we should, too.

I see this in myself and others every year, that sort of low-energy shift coming off the buzz of summer and the brief yet bustling autumn of the Midwest. In our productivity-centered culture, it can be easy to mistake this slow-down as the winter blues, or we feel guilty for not “doing” as much. 

But we’re human, and our pace fluctuates. What if, instead of feeling like there’s something wrong, we listened to that innate feeling to slow down? 

Here’s some ideas to get you started:

Prioritze rest.

If the darkness creeping in at 4:30 makes you tired, consider going to bed earlier when you can. If it helps, develop a personalized nighttime routine that gets you excited to do it. For example, a soothing bath followed by curling up with a blanket and your favorite comfort show. Or maybe you want to turn your bedroom into the ultimate Zen experience, with low lighting, calming music, and a good book. 

And don’t forget to acknowledge that resting is actually doing something. Rest is productive, and in a world that is hyper-focused on your output, rest is a revolutionary act. Fight the power. Take a nap.

Get your Hygge on.

“Hygge”, a Scandinavian word for embracing coziness, comfort, and simplicity, is all about creating a warm, inviting haven in the cold months. Pick a corner by the window so you can take in the winter wonderland from a comfortable chair. Add blankets, scented candles, hot drinks and snacks, and some light reading (or a Hallmark Christmas movie, you do you.) 

Hygge is also about intimate gatherings and meaningful connections. It’s important to nurture our relationships this time of year when it’s easy to become isolated. So while you are enjoying the cozy life, remember to connect with a friend or two to keep your warm fuzzies warm.

Embrace the cold.

I have to admit that I dislike being outdoors in the cold more and more each year, but family obligations require me to brave the bitter winds of trick-or-treating, trunk-or-treating, picking out a Christmas tree, and occasionally building a snowman or going sledding. I always dread getting outside in the cold… but I always end up enjoying myself.

Why? 

Because your girl is prepared. I layer my pants, shirts, and socks, and make sure to have a travel mug of hot coffee nearby. There’s no rule that says you can’t wear 3 pairs of pants. If it makes you comfortable, do it! 

And there’s something about a winter walk that hits different. I’m not sure if it’s the crisp air, the lack of people, or the brilliant white snow on the ground, but everything is just more peaceful. Winter sunsets are especially beautiful if you feel like going on a pre-dinnertime stroll.

Make some comfort food. 

Winter is the perfect time to utilize your slow cooker. This time of year, I like to make pot roast or homemade soup with plenty of root vegetables. Here’s my favorite, super easy recipe for chicken corn chowder: https://www.lecremedelacrumb.com/slow-cooker-chicken-corn-chowder/

And not to be all like, “you must try this,” but you must try this with fresh bread as your utensil.

Speaking of bread, if you are missing the sun, why not bake one? Celebrate winter solstice and the much-anticipated return to longer, sunnier days by baking Sun Bread, recipe here:

https://audreypress.com/2020/10/18/sun-bread-by-elisa-kleven-and-happy-sun-bread-recipe/

It will warm you up and make your house smell incredible. If you have little ones, there’s even a book you can read with them to keep with the theme.

As our corner of the world settles into winter’s quiet, perhaps we can allow ourselves the same grace. Instead of pushing against the natural rhythm of this season, we might find peace in embracing it. Slowing down, resting, and reflecting can be just as essential as the energy we pour into brighter, warmer days. Let’s look at this time of year as a chance to step back, recharge, and honor the need to rest, just as nature does.