Embracing the Seasons

“Winter is not a season, it’s a celebration.”

—Anamika Mishra, author

I have a confession to make: winter has traditionally been a difficult time for me.

Growing up on the west coast of Canada, it wasn’t unusual to go a whole month without seeing the sun in the winter. When the sun did finally make its appearance, along with the Japanese cherry blossoms in February, it was as if I came alive again. As it turns out, the weather in France (the parts I’ve lived in, at least) is not so different to that of Vancouver.

Choosing To Experience Winter Differently

A couple of years ago I wanted a way to experience snow in winter, mainly because I wanted a reason to like the season. The dark, drizzly, gray days of winter in Burgundy made me dread the end of autumn. I know, though, that when I’m in the snow, light reflects off the surface, even on the grayest of days. And a little dose of extra light in the dark of winter can do wonders for my mood!

We didn’t have any mountains near us at the time, so I found a place a couple of hours away in the Jura where we could go snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. It was also an excuse to get away for the weekend with my husband, in addition to seeking out the light and some exercise.

A New Activity To Enjoy

We enjoyed it so much that we bought two pairs of snowshoes that we can use anytime. In our new region we have mountains just an hour away, so getting out for a mid-winter hike in the snow can now be a daytrip.

Last Saturday, we headed into the Cantal Mountains and found a new spot to explore with our snowshoes (see the photo at the top of this post). The sun was shining bright, and even though the wind was rather cutting, it was so elating to be outdoors enjoying the snow and the scenery. Just an afternoon away and everything seemed to get a mini reset.

Embracing The Seasons For Wellness

Embracing the seasons and making the most of them has everything to do with our holistic wellness. Being in the present moment, and experiencing the best of what there is, means that there is always something positive to explore.

Instead of begrudging the cold, wet and damp, I’m thankful.

This gives rhythm to life and encourages me to flow with my creation, contemplation and exhilaration. And it means that I’m happy in EVERY season.

What about you? What do you do to embrace the seasons?

Looking For Some Ways To Embrace The Season?

If you’re looking for ways to flow in this darker season, check out my blog post on the subject here.

If you’d like to go for a mindful walk and search out unseen beauty around you, download the Creative Walking Tour audio recording and interactive workbook. Head out on an adventure in your own backyard!