Workday Wintering

For years, I used to struggle against the seasonal shift, battling the early darkness with sheer willpower and usually feeling an inevitable dip in energy. Over time, I’ve realized that fighting the season is exhausting and truly unproductive. This realization led me to pick up the book Wintering by Katherine May, which beautifully explores the power of rest and retreat. Inspired by its message, I’ve learned to lean in the cozy by adjusting my environment and routine to make my workspace an ally against the cold and gloom.  

The biggest factor for me has been with controlling the light and sound. I’ve long-abandoned harsh, cold overhead office lighting for warm-toned desk lamps that create softer, focused pools of light. To combat the dark atmosphere of my office in the colder months, I use a small candle warmer with my favorite scents (currently mulberry) and put on instrumental playlists to create a barrier against the gloom.  

Finally, I love to lean into a warm beverage in the afternoon. I pick my favorite mug for tea, coffee or even warm broth. I love the physical comfort that comes from holding a warm mug in my hands.  

By making these small, intentional changes, I can combat the dregs of winter with coziness. Just as the author suggests, wintering is a necessary period of stillness and slow replenishment, I’ve stopped fighting the cold and started focusing my attention on my natural inclination towards comfort. Now stepping into my office on a cold day doesn’t feel like it’s full of gloom and I can focus on what truly matters.  

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