When graced with chilly weather, are you tempted to hibernate?
When I gaze outside my window, I see gray skies and endless fog-typical for late November in Belgium. Yet, surprisingly, only last week it was 14 degrees warmer (in Celsius). Time to pull out my winter socks and thick sweaters and brace myself for the cold.
This morning, as I strolled through the countryside, the chill seeped through my mittens. On the bright side, gusts of wind brought freshness-cleansing the thoughts in my head, which stagnate when I remain too idle.
Sauntering by horses, deer, cows, geese and ducks splashing in streams, I realized that we humans, in our winter clothes, have it easy. For the most part, these animals spend their days and nights bare and unsheltered. They brave the weather. Unlike us, they don't seem to complain about comfort.
On my way home, I saw cows, horses, and deer lying in the fields. Were they tired, cold, or bored? Since I don't speak their language, I'll never know for sure. They appeared to want to hibernate. Sometimes, I want to hibernate, too. Claim my favorite spot on the sofa, pull a fleece blanket up to my ears, shut my eyes-and daydream. Or meditate. Or just let my mind wander and see where it goes.
This practice contrasts what most of us have been taught: as humans, we rely on our minds to perform. We work so hard and make our brains sizzle to get ahead in our careers, lives, and relationships. Sometimes, we need to take well-deserved breaks in our routines. That's what weekends are for. Yet, often, we still push ahead, trying to fulfil impossible goals, even though we've promised ourselves a day of rest.
It takes practice to slow down. It takes practice to let our minds wander. That's where creativity-and healthy doses of curiosity-show up. So, if you've been burning the candle at both ends-working too hard to finish that big project or find the right job-take a break. Restoring your body, brain, and spirit is good medicine.
For years, the practice of non-doing (even just a few minutes) has refreshed my soul and given me the occasional nudge to be kinder to myself. Non-doing also clears my head, and points me in the right direction, in so many ways. So why not give it a try?
How does cooler weather make you feel? Are you tempted to hibernate? When the temperature falls, which kinds of activities or contemplative practices bring you comfort?
I am an interfaith spiritual director who enjoys working with people from all backgrounds, and spiritual and religious traditions. I am very open and affirming of the LGBTQIA+ community and folks who are neurodivergent. I am currently accepting new spiritual direction clients; please use the contact page on this website if you would like to meet or obtain further information about spiritual direction sessions with me.