64 - The Art of Wintering: Embracing Rest & Renewal this Winter

As the days grow shorter and colder, many of us dread the winter season. But what if winter holds hidden treasures we haven’t considered? What if our mindset could be the greatest barrier to finding joy and nourishment in this season?

In today's episode, Elizabeth Mintun explores the concept of wintering. In the northern hemisphere, as we approach winter solstice - the shortest and darkest day of the year - she shares insights into how we can reframe our perspective on winter and uncover its gifts. From biological rhythms to the restorative potential of darkness, she walks you through ways to embrace this season with curiosity and intention.

Key Takeaways: 

Embrace rest as a natural rhythm of the season. Try catnaps or one-minute breathing “resting” pauses during your day.Create a cozy atmosphere with candles or warm lighting.Hygge-inspired practices can bring comfort and mindfulness into your daily life.

Resources

https://www.thecalmingground.com/opt-in

https://www.thecalmingground.com/free-guided-meditation

https://www.amazon.com/Wintering-Power-Retreat-Difficult-Times/dp/0593189485/ref=pd_lpo_d_sccl_1/133-3817138-6764125?pd_rd_w=8vK6U&content-id=amzn1.sym.4c8c52db-06f8-4e42-8e56-912796f2ea6c&pf_rd_p=4c8c52db-06f8-4e42-8e56-912796f2ea6c&pf_rd_r=6JQ58GNFDFGC39F0BN5D&pd_rd_wg=0H2vT&pd_rd_r=63ab5abf-a5e5-43e4-afd8-8eef0dbc6d96&pd_rd_i=0593189485&psc=1

Connect With Me!

I’d love to hear your thoughts on wintering and how you plan to shift your mindset this season. Feel free to reach out:

Email: elizabethmintun@thecalmingground.comSocial: @thecalmingground on Facebook & Instagram

Research sources for this episode: 

 "Winter Health: How to Cope with Seasonal Depression." The Independent, 6 Dec. 2024, https://www.independent.co.uk/health-and-fitness/winter-health-seasonal-depression-light-b2646316.html.

Walton, Alice G. “Dreading a Dark Winter Lockdown? Think Like a Norwegian.” The Guardian, 26 Sept. 2020, https://www.theguardian.com/science/2020/sep/26/dreading-a-dark-winter-lockdown-think-like-a-norwegian.

Warner, Kelsey. “What Is Hygge? 13 Ways to Practice This Danish Lifestyle Trend at Home.” SELF, 2 Dec. 2020, https://www.self.com/story/practicing-hygge-danish-lifestyle.

This podcast offers a space for busy people to go to for inspiration, wisdom, to learn from one another's struggles and transformations, as well as to receive actionable steps to relax, gain confidence, and move forward with the life they long to experience.

• No. of episodes: 93
• Latest episode: 2025-07-02
• Health & Fitness Alternative Health Mental Health

Where can you listen?