4 Ways To Thrive In The Darker Months
Here are four simple, and practical ways we can enjoy this season.
by: jacquelyn duggan
There’s something wonderful about this time of year - chill in the air, breaking out sweaters, warm mugs in hand … and yet, as the days grow shorter and darker it can feel difficult to enjoy the season as we did in the spring and summer. The dark days can grate on our hearts a bit. It’s both comforting and lonesome.
As I began to consider this idea: the “both/and” this time of year brings, I was reminded of a good word my favorite author Emily P. Freeman shared:
“I thought about all the ways I tend to look for the brightest light. I want to capture it, hold on to it, keep it close when I sense it sinking away. But the darkness can be a kind companion as well, comforting and still . . . it’s important to find a way to live with both, to find a way to walk between them without only facing one or the other.”
I love what she says there at the end, that there’s an opportunity to walk between darkness and light, “without only facing one or the other.” What a beautiful nudge of hope.
What would it look like for us to find light in these darker days? There are certainly many thoughtful ways to consider this internally, and I’d encourage you to reflect on that. For now, I’d love to pause and consider some more practical ideas too.
With that in mind, here are four simple, and practical ways I think we can enjoy this season.
Be a beginner
There’s something exciting about trying something new, right? Learning a new skill can bring so much joy and inspiration to the day to day. Consider starting a hobby like needlepoint, baking, or pottery. Or maybe, reconsider taking that online class you’ve been thinking about - anything that sounds fun to you! See what happens when you allow yourself to be a beginner at something.
Make something from scratch
I believe wholeheartedly that the rhythm of chopping vegetables, kneading bread and stirring big pots of soup is so good for the soul. Take some time this season to slow down, and consider what sounds nourishing to you. Then, make it from scratch! You’ll be so glad you did.
Create a space you love
After spending the last few years at home more than ever, I think we all can agree that our spaces matter to our wellbeing. Have you considered making adjustments to your space each season though? Myquillyn Smith, another author (+ Interior Design expert) I love, encourages us to find small ways to bring the season indoors. Think less literally, and more figuratively - like cozy blankets with great texture, candles that remind you of a crackling fire, a playlist that brings you home each day … it sounds small, but these little things add up, helping us create a space we love in this season.
Seek connection
Maybe most importantly, seek connection. What does this look like for you in your day to day right now? Is it taking a few quiet moments in the morning to set an intention for the day, creating connection with yourself? Calling a dear friend on your lunch break? Reading a favorite book to your child at bedtime? However this looks for you, keep turning towards the goodness that connection brings.
