Embrace Your Inner Bear: Why Humans Need a Season of Wintering
“When you stop trying to brace yourself against the storm, you can let it blow you hollow.” —Katherine May*
When the temperatures drop, some animals pack it in for the season—literally. Bears retreat to cozy dens, bees huddle for warmth, and even turtles settle into the mud for a winter-long nap. While humans don’t technically hibernate, maybe we’ve been missing out on an important natural rhythm. Winter is nature’s reminder to pause, recharge, and lean into slower, quieter days. Let’s explore why "wintering" might just be the human equivalent of hibernation—and why it’s so essential.
Why Animals Hibernate (and What We Can Learn)
Animals hibernate to survive the season’s harsh conditions. With less food and energy available, they adapt by lowering their heart rates, conserving energy, and waiting it out until spring. For us, winter isn’t about survival in the same sense, but it still presents an opportunity to reflect and recharge.
When was the last time you permitted yourself to slow down? Taking cues from nature, "wintering" can help us conserve emotional and physical energy, allowing us to emerge stronger, healthier, and ready for new growth.
The Benefits of Wintering for Humans
Wintering doesn’t mean literally sleeping through the season (though who wouldn’t love a long nap?). Instead, it’s about embracing rest, reflection, and renewal. Here’s why:
It’s Your Seasonal Reset
Just as bears prepare for hibernation by storing up fat and energy, we can prep ourselves with restorative practices. Taking time to rest doesn’t make you lazy—it makes you more effective when the hustle inevitably picks up again.
Reflection Brings Clarity
Winter’s quiet can be the perfect backdrop for introspection. Journaling, meditating, or even taking contemplative walks in nature can help you process the past year and set meaningful goals for the one ahead.
Physical Rest Is Key
Shorter days and colder weather naturally make us want to cozy up. This isn’t a weakness; it’s biology. Lean into it by prioritizing quality sleep, warm meals, and comforting routines. Bonus points if your routine includes tea and a good book.
Wintering Activities to Try
If wintering sounds like your vibe but you’re unsure where to start, here are a few ideas:
Lean Into the Indoors
Create a cozy, winter-friendly environment that feels like your version of a den. Think blankets, soft lighting, and spaces designed for rest and relaxation. Field Tip: Check out The Little Book of Hygge by Meik Wiking** which delves into the Danish philosophy of hygge (pronounced “hoo-ga”), which emphasizes coziness, comfort, and well-being. The book offers practical tips and ideas for creating moments of hygge in daily life, from lighting candles to sharing meals with loved ones. I re-read it every winter.
Connect with Nature, Even When It’s Cold
While staying inside has its appeal, don’t forget the restorative power of fresh air. Bundle up and take a slow, intentional walk. Notice the stillness of the season—bare trees, crisp air, and muted tones. Field Tip: If you have never tried snowshoeing, give it a shot. The brainpower it takes to learn to trek in snowshoes will take your mind off your worries. And you may discover a new hobby you love.
Embrace Hibernation Lite
Say no to unnecessary commitments and yes to things that nurture your body and soul. Schedule some quiet evenings, watch comfort movies, or try a new hobby like knitting or painting.
Practice Gratitude
Winter is a wonderful time to reflect on what you’re grateful for. Start or continue a gratitude journal to keep a positive mindset through the darker months.
The Science of Slowing Down
Psychologists often refer to the "winter blues," but intentional wintering can flip that narrative. Studies suggest that embracing slower, mindful activities during winter can combat stress and even boost your immune system. Just like animals that hibernate, humans benefit from stepping back and conserving energy during the most demanding months.
Spring Always Comes
The beauty of wintering lies in its impermanence. Just like the hibernating bear emerges from the den in spring, we too can look forward to a season of growth and new beginnings. By embracing winter as a time for restoration, you’ll be ready to meet the longer days and brighter skies with renewed energy and purpose.
So this winter, channel your inner bear. Hibernate a little. Reflect a lot. And remember, just as nature uses this season to prepare for its spring awakening, so can you.
References:
*Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times by Katherine May; Penguin Random House
A deeply moving and introspective book that explores the concept of “wintering,” a period of rest, retreat, and renewal. May weaves her personal experiences with insights from nature, literature, and mythology, encouraging readers to embrace life’s quieter, darker moments.
**The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living by Meik Wiking; Penguin Random House
Field Fact: Bears don’t fully hibernate. They enter torpor—a lighter sleep where their heart rate drops to 8 beats/min, but they can still wake up if disturbed. Mama bears even give birth during this time, nursing cubs while conserving energy. Oh, and they don’t eat, drink, or poop all winter thanks to cool biological tricks. Nature is wild!
