Embracing the Positivity of Winter

It's the midst of winter; a time many of us associate with darkness, the cold, and hibernation. We may feel a pressure for new beginnings, with 'New Year, New Me' splattered over every marketing campaign, and the world telling us we must do great things and be better than we've ever been before!

And it can all feel really, really exhausting.

So how do you get through this time? If the winter season is one you dread year on year,  we'd love to share some of the things that have changed our perspective on this season, with the hope that you may start to see a little bit of its positivity too!

Reframing the Cold

Have you ever stepped outside early on a frosty morning and been stopped short by how beautiful the crisp, white grass looks, glistening beneath the sun? Or perhaps you've been lucky enough to see snowflakes falling onto untrodden white blankets of snow; or, you've deliberately cancelled your plans because of the icy roads, and instead chosen to light a fire, curl up on the sofa and sip on a steaming mug of hot chocolate...

Now, we could have seen the frost as an inconvenience because it'll be so cold to get to the car, or the snow stopping the trains from running will make you late for work, or resenting the icy roads because you can't get out to see your friends.

Either perspective is plausible, but each creates a completely different experience.

Winter, in so many ways, is an absolutely beautiful time of year. We get to see nature in all her vulnerability; drawn back, hiding, and uncertain. She feels slower and calmer, waiting to blossom with energy and new life in the coming months.

So, what if, instead of resisting this cold, we see it as an opportunity to mirror her slow pace. We can use this time to create space within our homes that feel safe and cosy, lighting candles and spending our time on hobbies and skills; we could invite friends over for movie nights under blankets, take morning walks into beautiful forests and admire the changing environment around us.

Just because it may feel darker and less comfortable, it does not mean there is no light to be found.

We get to see nature in all her vulnerability; drawn back, hiding, and uncertain.

Small Acts of Positivity

The winter season is incredibly tough for many, from health services to animal shelters, there are a lot of causes that need us.

Helping others is one of the simplest ways to bring happiness into our own lives. As humans, we are social creatures, and connecting with others in a way that makes someone else feel good boosts our wellbeing drastically.

It's also incredibly important for our perspective and gratitude for the things we have. During the winter period, a lot of us experience symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), shifting our perspectives to an inherently negative one, without us noticing.

A simple google search of how to help your community during the winter will bring up thousands of results. Donating is really important and incredibly helpful, if you are in a financial position to do so. However, sharing your time through volunteering is one of the most rewarding experiences, and it doesn't need to cost you anything.

Even if it's just for a couple of days a month, you might be able to help homeless people find shelter, or provide food to those in need at your local food bank, or support animal charities rescuing stray animals in the cold. Each and any of these things will not only tremendously help your chosen cause, making a true difference to someone's life, but it will bring happiness to yours; providing perspective to the privileges that so many of us take for granted.

At The Positive Label, we are supporters of The Donkey Sanctuary, an incredible charity that are relentless in their pursuit of a better world for donkeys. Here is some information on how you can help them to continue their work.

Enjoy Seasonal Eating

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, each new season brings plenty of excitement to explore.

Eating seasonally is brilliant for your health, the planet and our overall wellbeing.

Eating seasonally for your health

The nutritional value of fruits and vegetables largely depends on when and where they’re picked. Locally grown produce is often harvested just days before you buy it, allowing more time to ripen naturally and develop essential nutrients. By choosing to source your fruits and vegetables locally, you’re enjoying them at their freshest and most nutrient-rich - plus, they’re likely to taste better too!

Eating seasonally for the planet

The fruits and vegetables in supermarkets often travel thousands of miles to reach your plate, contributing significantly to the 23-42% of global greenhouse gas emissions generated by food systems. A major contributor to this is the environmental impact of shipping and transit.

By choosing to buy from your local farm shop, you can eliminate these food miles and make a meaningful difference, both to the planet, but also to a local business.

With the farming industry up against increasingly difficult challenges, from climate change, water scarcity and depleting soil health, to extremely high standards demanded from supermarkets with low profit margins, supporting your farm shop goes so much further than you think.

Take the time next weekend to make a trip to your local farm shop; ask them where they source their stock and what vegetables are in season right now. They will be so grateful for your support.

Eating seasonally for your wellbeing

Mindfulness has a profound impact on our wellbeing. By staying present and fully focusing on the task at hand, we can feel calmer and more in control.

After visiting your local farm shop, take some time to browse cookbooks or search online for recipes using your fresh ingredients. Spend an afternoon cooking and experimenting with new flavours, fully immersing yourself in the process.

Not only will you feel a sense of accomplishment when you enjoy your creation, but you’ll also expand your cooking repertoire and nurture your mind in a positive, fulfilling way.

Embrace Rest and Reflection

Winter brings a sense of stillness and moments to pause and reflect. It’s the perfect time to evaluate your current situation: Where in your life do you feel happy? What areas would you like to change or improve? Is there a project you’ve been dreaming about starting?

These cosy days spent indoors, waiting for the cold to pass, offer a chance to reflect, plan, and move forward with new goals, ideas, and attitudes.

If you find the winter challenging, know that you’re not alone. The lack of sunshine, reduced social activities, and grey skies can weigh heavily on anyone. But remember, you have control over how you respond. This season can be a time for nurturing skills, reflecting, and appreciating the unique beauty of this time of year.

Even in the depths of a cold, frosty winter’s day, there is wonder and awe to be found.