I believe I echo the sentiments of pretty much everyone when I say that I’m ready for winter to be over.
Anyone else? I thought so.
Between ice storms, power outages, record snow-fall, sub-zero temperatures, high winds, lack of sun, and now a very high risk of flooding, I welcome spring, or even better yet, summer, to join us anytime now! Bring on the warm temps, blue skies, sunshine, and lush green grass!
All that said, however, it is still very much winter here and it will be here for at least another month, if not longer. So, rather than dread and despise the days, I say it’s better to make the most of them and press on!
As I mentioned in recent posts, I’m working my way through the e-book, An Inspired Life, by fellow blogger, Katie Hilbert. It’s been a true treat to dive in and participate with the book club she’s hosting on her site every Monday. One thing I loved most recently while reading was the concept Katie talks about of “leaning into our season.” She explains that leaning into our season means we’re “embracing it, living it, and loving it – despite its rough edges and imperfections.” She writes that it’s about being rooted in the now, while also being hopeful for what’s to come. The idea is that if we embrace where we are now, it will help propel us toward tomorrow. I love that. I need that. The energy, the drive, the will to keep up momentum and make things happen. This is what it’s about.
So, in a grey, cold, and sometimes harsh season, like this winter has been – or any season for that matter – how do we lean in and get the most from our days?
Well, in my efforts to ward off the winter blues, here are a few things I’ve been doing to lean into my season and bring a little warmth to my life …
If at all possible, I like to escape from the office on my lunch hour. And over the past month or so, I’ve been making a habit of going to my favorite coffee shop about once a week to enjoy a cinnamon spice tea and get lost in a book. It’s been really good for me to just step away for a few and focus on something that refreshes and inspires me. I’ve become a firm believer that self-care is just as important during the work day as it is outside of the work day.
I’ve been diligently going to the gym on a weekly basis to continue recovering my foot from injury and strengthening my body for the spring and summer months. Even if it’s 4 am, pitch black, and bitter cold outside, I make the trek into town to at least get my cardio in, and what a difference it makes for me emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually. Knowing that I’ll be fit and healthy for the best part of the year keeps me going and excited for the possibilities of racing again!
Capturing those rare moments of beauty in this season goes a long way too! Despite its challenges, winter does still have it’s lovely aspects.
I’ve been stocking up on all kinds of fresh fruit and enjoying the sweet taste and vibrant colors of spring and summer the past few weeks as the produce is starting to get better and better at the grocery store. It’s been a welcome addition to my breakfasts each morning, and makes for a healthy snack too!
Spending quality time with friends. Essential and necessary. Whether it’s going our for lunch or meeting for drinks after work, this little slice of time to chat, laugh, and be reminded of the good people in your corner makes any day, even the good ones, that much better. More of this is in order for sure.
How are you leaning into your season? What things are sustaining you through these long winter months?
Whatever it is that brings you joy, do more of it!
Happy Sunday, friends!