Between New Year’s resolutions, Dry January, love month and more, there’s a whole lot of expectations tied to the first several months of the new year. And while some of these concepts can be great motivators, it can also feel like far too much pressure. Let us not forget that we are coming off a holiday season jam-packed with activities, and are unfortunately in the midst of the coldest and darkest days of the year. Not very sunshiney of me to point this out, I know. But it’s for good reason, I promise – just bear with me.
It’s hard to be your best self in the depths of Winter. Not to say that it can’t be done, but that if it doesn’t look perfect, it’s okay! We quite simply have to fight against nature to feel energized and enthusiastic about the prospect of exiting our homes to enter the tundra that is a New England winter. So without further ado, January and February are what I am officially dubbing as hibernation season. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to do a whole lot of nothing – and feel great about it. Curl up on the couch, sleep in, take a day off from making plans and focus on some winter self-care as a form of wellness. It’s a time for slowing down, taking a breath, and focusing your energy on what matters most to you. And I’ve actually found that leaning into this slow, intentional hibernation season is where the magic happens.
Embracing slow living this winter has actually led me to be consistent with more of my new years’ goals than ever before, without putting the pressure on. I’m giving my body more time to rest and relax, which means I feel energized by the thought of going to my favorite workout class when I do, rather than dreading the tasks I force my body through when I don’t have the energy. I’m waking up bright eyed and bushy tailed earlier on the weekends, because I’ve allowed myself to stay in and get those mystical nine hours of sleep. I’m spending my time with the people who make me the happiest, and I’m enjoying spending time with myself, too. I’m making my home a sanctuary and romanticizing little moments. And noticing where I’m funneling all of the extra energy is telling me a whole lot about what matters most to me.
So let’s lean into these next few weeks of hibernation season. Grab a blanket, pick out a good book, make a homemade meal, take a restorative hot yoga class, say no to plans (or yes, if that’s what you’re feeling) and settle in. There’s plenty of time for the rest later. I promise you, this just might be what sets you up for success for the year ahead!
As a bonus, I’ve put together a few of my winter favorites to romanticize those slow winter moments here – we’re talking matching sweat sets, tea kettles, sunrise alarms and more to elevate the hibernation vibes this season. Happy resting! ☼
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