Welcome to another episode of The Slow Living Collective podcast. This week I am delighted to welcome Fi from Reiki & Rewild, a Reiki guide & Slow Living coach, who has come to discuss all things seasonal living with me.
Now I have to be honest, Seasonal living might just be one of my favourite topics, because I truly believe that once you embrace living seasonally it becomes the gateway for truly being able to embrace a slow and simple life. The reasons for this? Well, living sesonally is built into us. And it is something that we have been so brutally torn away from in the modern world. It’s the very reason why we find seasonal living so natural when we are awakened to it again, because it is the most natural thing about our lives. And it just makes sense too.
Tune into today’s episode for a deep dive with me & Fi into living seasonally, our ancestral connections and why adopting a more seasonal approach to life is the most natural way we can live.
Seasonal living in Autumn and Winter
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, nature gently nudges us toward a new rhythm, a slower, quieter way of living that invites us to pause and breathe at last. Seasonal living is about aligning ourselves with these subtle shifts that we can observe in nature, letting go of the frantic energy of summer, and embracing a season that naturally draws us inward. Late autumn and winter are a time for grounding, for releasing what is no longer serving us, and for making space to listen to what our bodies, minds, and hearts truly need. In this season of shorter days and cooler nights, we can find an invitation to live with more intention, embracing the cosier moments and focusing on what brings us a deep sense of peace and joy.
Just as trees release their leaves in autumn, we, too, are reminded to let go, creating room for rest and introspection. After a season filled with vibrant energy, summer’s intensity shifts to autumn’s softer glow, encouraging us to seek comfort and quiet. Winter further deepens this call, as nature retreats into itself, slowing down for a time of restoration. This rhythm encourages us to adopt a similar pace, releasing the constant push to do more and be more and live like it’s an eternal summer. It’s a time for nurturing our homes, families, and ourselves. By embracing the natural world’s slower pace, we give ourselves permission to honour the importance of rest and stillness.
Late autumn and winter, often overshadowed by the Christmas rush, are ideal for cultivating a slower, more intentional lifestyle. The season gives us permission to cosy up our spaces, embrace seasonal meals, and enjoy simple rituals that bring us back to the present moment. Think of this as a season to nurture what’s around us, to celebrate warmth, to appreciate simple joys. Aligning with nature’s rhythm is like taking a deep breath in our lives; it lets us reconnect with what truly matters and discover beauty in the stillness.
The Energy Shift from Late Autumn to Winter
The darker evenings and cooler temperatures create the perfect environment for rest and rejuvenation, almost as if nature is giving us permission to pause. But in a world that glorifies busyness and productivity, it can feel counterintuitive to slow down, even when every sign around us says it’s time.
Resisting this urge to slow down can lead us straight to burnout. This season isn’t meant for overcommitting or trying to accomplish more than we did in the brighter, longer days of summer. Our minds and bodies need a break from the pace we often push ourselves to keep, and late autumn and winter offer that space. The modern world encourages us to live like it’s an eternal summer, meaning that we’re encouraged to keep up with the frenetic pace of summer all year long.
By lowering our expectations, embracing a slower pace, and focusing on simply being present, we can avoid the cycle of burnout and discover a deeper level of contentment. It’s about giving ourselves permission to say no, to let things be imperfect, and to cherish what truly brings us joy without the pressure to “do it all.”
So how can we truly embrace the art of slow living in these colder months? Start by simplifying routines. Instead of filling every moment with obligations, create space for cosy, quiet activities that nourish your soul. Light a candle and let the warmth set the tone for the evening. Swap screens for books or long-forgotten creative hobbies that bring peace. Create family rituals, like evening storytime or weekend baking sessions, that help ground everyone in shared moments. These small, intentional choices make a big impact on how we experience the season.
It doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes the most impactful changes are the simplest ones. Put on your cosiest jumper, curl up with a blanket, and enjoy the magic of a candlelit evening without an agenda. By letting go of the rush and finding pleasure in these quieter, slower activities, we give ourselves the permission and gift of rest and the opportunity to rediscover the beauty of simply being.
Seasonal Foods and Nourishment for Cold Weather
When we choose foods that naturally grow in late autumn and winter, we’re not just aligning with nature’s rhythm; we’re also giving our bodies exactly what they need to thrive in the cold months. Seasonal produce like root vegetables, winter squashes, and hearty leafy greens are packed with the nutrients that support our immune systems, helping us stay resilient during the coldest season. These foods are grounding, warming, and incredibly nourishing, offering comfort and sustenance when we need it most.
Think about it: root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnips are literally grown underground, soaking up nutrients that are perfect for building up our own energy reserves. Winter squashes, with their vibrant colours and rich, creamy textures, offer warmth and comfort, perfect for turning into soups, stews, or roasted side dishes. And let’s not forget about leafy greens like kale and cabbage, which bring essential vitamins and minerals to our plates when we might not have as much sunlight to fuel us. These foods aren’t just fuel; they’re part of a mindful way of eating that connects us more deeply to the season and the cycles of nature.
Guided Journal Questions as we head towards winter
Here are five guided journal questions to help you slow down and reflect as we transition into winter:
1. What does rest look like for me this winter? Think about how you can make space for rest and rejuvenation. What small changes can you make to your schedule or routines to allow for more downtime? Are there any commitments or expectations you could release to prioritise your wellbeing?
2. What am I most grateful for this season? Winter invites us to turn inward and appreciate the simple, cozy moments. What are you thankful for right now? Consider both the big and small things—relationships, experiences, or everyday comforts that bring warmth and joy to your life.
3. How can I embrace slowness and stillness in the coming months? Winter’s slower pace can be challenging in a busy world. How can you honor this season by slowing down? Are there daily or weekly practices—like journaling, reading, or a quiet walk—that you can incorporate to help you feel more present and grounded?
4. What do I need to let go of to enter the new year with intention? Reflect on anything you’re holding onto that might be creating stress or weighing you down. This could be physical clutter, unhelpful habits, or emotional burdens. What can you release to make space for what truly matters in the year ahead?
5. What would a nourishing winter look like for me? Winter is a wonderful time to focus on nourishment—body, mind, and spirit. What types of foods, self-care practices, or cozy rituals will help you feel nurtured? Consider ways to bring warmth and comfort into your daily life this season.
As we move deeper into late autumn and into winter, let’s give ourselves permission to embrace this season in all its quietness. Let’s accept the invite to slow down, to rest, and to reconnect with what truly matters: our health, our loved ones, and our own inner peace. By leaning into seasonal rhythms, embracing warm, nourishing foods, and making space for reflection, we can find grounding and joy, even in the colder months that don’t always seem that appealing. Remember, there’s no need to rush or do it all; this season is about presence and simplicity.
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