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January, the year-long month, is almost over. If you're anything like me, the winter is not your vibe. As soon as it gets dark starting at 5 PM, my seasonal depression goes into overdrive, and I just want to hibernate until it's warm outside again. But over the years, I've learned something important: winter, as challenging as it is, can also be an opportunity.
Winter forces everything to slow down. Nature itself takes a pause. The trees shed their leaves, appearing bare and lifeless, but beneath the surface, they are conserving energy, strengthening their roots, and preparing for the burst of life that will come in spring. This cycle of letting go is essential for growth. Without winter’s rest, the trees wouldn’t be able to bloom as vibrantly when warmer days return. And maybe, just maybe, we’re not so different from the trees.
January is actually the perfect time to practice something called Hygge (pronounced "hoo-gah"). Hygge is a Danish concept that loosely translates to "coziness," but it’s much more than that. Originating in Denmark, one of the happiest countries in the world despite its long, dark winters, Hygge is about creating a warm atmosphere, finding joy in simplicity, and fostering a sense of comfort and connection. It might be lighting a candle, curling up with a good book, or sipping on your favorite tea while the world feels quiet. Hygge is about embracing the small pleasures in life that make the darkness feel less overwhelming.
For those of us navigating grief or sadness, these colder months can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, the weight of loss feels heavier when everything outside is barren and cold. On the other, it’s the perfect time to slow down—to take a break from the endless smiles, the social obligations, and the external noise—and just exist. Like the trees, we too can take this time to rest, to let go of what no longer serves us, and to prepare for our next season of growth.
I wouldn’t liken this to the kind of sadness or depression that grief often brings. Instead, this is intentional time: a chance to stop, reflect on what you've been through and imagine what you want the upcoming year to look like. Winter invites us to rest, to rejuvenate, and to engage in simple pleasures that nurture the soul.
That said, the winter months can sometimes feel endlessly gray, dragging us into a sluggish, stuck state. If you’re feeling stuck in the blahs of winter, here are a few ways to shift your energy:
Get outside, even when it’s cold: Fresh air and natural light can do wonders for your mood. Take a short walk, bundle up with a warm scarf, and embrace the crisp air. Even ten minutes outside can help clear your mind.
Move your body: Exercise doesn’t have to be intense to be effective. Try gentle stretching, yoga, or even dancing in your living room to your favorite upbeat song. Movement helps shake off the winter fog and boosts your endorphins.
Engage in creative activities: Whether it’s painting, knitting, writing, or baking, creative outlets help redirect energy in a positive way. Creativity nurtures the soul and provides a sense of accomplishment.
Brighten your space: Light candles, use warm lighting, and incorporate cozy textures into your home. Surround yourself with things that bring you joy, like fresh flowers or uplifting scents.
Connect with loved ones: While it’s tempting to withdraw, reaching out to friends or family for a chat, a cozy movie night, or a virtual coffee date can help ease feelings of isolation.
Create a winter ritual: Establishing small rituals, like a Sunday self-care routine, weekly journaling, or a nightly wind-down routine with herbal tea, can bring consistency and comfort during this season.
This season of stillness can become a haven for self-care. Think warm animal cuddles, binge-worthy TV shows, or spicy hot tea steaming in your favorite mug. Pull out your comfiest blankets, settle into your favorite corner of the couch, and allow yourself to be. If you’re someone who finds solace in journaling, winter days are perfect for it. Open your notebook, let the pen flow, and write without structure or expectation. No one has to read it but you. The act of putting thoughts to paper can be surprisingly cathartic.
For me, January has become a time of reflection and gentle planning. I think about the ways grief has shaped me, the lessons it’s taught, and the strength I’ve found in moments I thought I wouldn’t make it through. Just as the trees need to strip themselves bare to grow stronger, I allow myself to shed old expectations, outdated beliefs, and anything that no longer aligns with the life I want to live. It’s not about having everything figured out; it’s about creating space to breathe and simply be.
If you need it, here’s your green light to step back from the craziness and take some time for yourself. You totally deserve it!
So, how are you spending your January? Are you finding moments of Hygge in your days? Are you allowing yourself to rest, to reflect, and to dream? Share your thoughts in the comments below. You never know—your actions might inspire someone else to find peace and joy in the quiet moments of winter.
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