8 Seasonal Things to do this Winter
Slow Winter Days
Winter is a time of quiet change, offering us moments to embrace stillness and warmth, yet many feel it stretches on forever when the weather fluctuates and discourages us from spending time outdoors.
We tend to place a lot of pressure on winter too. It’s a season we often romanticise with memories of cozy gatherings, steaming cups of tea, and vibrant winter markets. It’s also a time for reflection, as nature invites us to slow down and appreciate the cooler, calmer days. With longer nights and the warmth of indoor settings, it’s hard not to feel a sense of opportunity to connect and nurture ourselves during the winter months.
While we can't change the weather, we can choose to savour this season, come rain or shine.
Below, we’re sharing ideas for slow, seasonal activities to embrace this August.
Ways To Spend A Slow Winter
1. Nature Walks and Forest Bathing
Immerse yourself in the beauty of winter by taking leisurely walks in nearby woods or parks. Allow the sights, sounds, and scents of the season to awaken your senses, fostering a deep connection with nature. Bring along a journal to capture your thoughts and reflect on the serenity that surrounds you.
2. Cozy Read-Alouds
Gather your loved ones for cozy evenings filled with storytelling and shared reading. Select books that resonate with the seasons or reflect on themes of nature and mindfulness. This activity not only nurtures relationships but creates a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for winter’s chill.
3. Mindful Cooking with Seasonal Ingredients
Embrace the art of cooking by preparing hearty meals with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Take your time to explore new recipes or revisit family favourites, enjoying the process as much as the outcome. Cooking mindfully not only nourishes your body but also deepens your appreciation for the bounty of winter.
4. Handmade Gifts and Crafts
Channel your creativity by crafting handmade gifts for friends and family using natural materials. Whether it’s knitting a cozy scarf with soft yarns or creating wreaths from dried flowers, these personal touches symbolize thoughtfulness and care. Embrace the slower pace of handmade projects, cherishing the time spent in whimsical creation.
5. Winter Gardening Workshops
Participate in local workshops focused on winter gardening techniques or native plant care. Connect with fellow nature enthusiasts while cultivating skills that enhance your understanding of the land. Embrace the beauty of plant life even in the colder months, learning how to best nurture your garden for the seasons ahead.
6. Candle Making at Home
Bring warmth and light into your home by making your own candles with natural wax and essential oils. This mindful activity allows you to infuse your living space with fragrances that uplift your spirit during the darker days. Plus, each candle serves as a cherished reminder of the calm and tranquility you cultivated while creating it.
7. Stargazing Nights
Gather a blanket and head outdoors on clear winter nights to marvel at the stars above. Use this time to reflect on your dreams and intentions while connecting with the vastness of the universe. Enjoy the stillness in the air as you soak in the beauty, allowing nature’s rhythms to inspire your own journey.
8. Community Potluck Dinners
Organise a potluck dinner with neighbours or friends, inviting everyone to bring a dish that represents their culture, roots, or winter warmth. This fosters community ties and creates an opportunity to share stories, laughter, and delicious food. Embrace the simplicity and joy of good company, celebrating the connections that enrich our lives during the winter season.
As the winter days unfold, may you find delight in the art of slow living and the simple pleasures that each moment affords.
Embrace the beauty of connection— with yourself, nature and those you hold dear. May your days be filled with warmth, mindfulness, and the gentle rhythm of nature, for that, dear friend, is where true luxury resides.
Until Next Time…
La Sierra xo