Wintering

The term ‘Wintering’ originally comes from the Spartans who trained rigorously throughout their harsh winter.

This regime would have put the training montage in Rocky IV to shame and ensured the army would fight with ease come spring.

However, this goes against our natural instincts.

Winter is a time when nature ‘breathes out’

Winter is a time when nature ‘breathes out’ and we’re a part of that. It’s a time of quiet restoration.

Our primitive ancestors would have spent autumn stocking up and would now be huddled in the cave keeping warm by the fire which is why that’s often all we want to do as the days get shorter.

It’s a natural, seasonal response.

One problem is that our society suffers from movement poverty at the best of times so ensuring we also keep moving appropriately through the colder months is vital.

You don’t have to go wild swimming in a frozen lake or undertake Spartan style bootcamps in the snow, just venture out and enjoy the beauty that winter brings.

Notice the birds as they forage for the last few nuts and seeds.

Marvel at the frost twinkling on the branches in the low sun.

Feel the coldness in the air in your lungs as you breath in.

Learning to Winter as part of a seasonal approach to life will let you appreciate the colder months and give you opportunities to connect with yourself, others and nature.

Whether you run, walk the dog or just have a meander with a neighbour, choosing to do so among nature has multiple health benefits all year round.

And it’s not like we can’t snuggle up by then fire and enjoy a hot chocolate afterwards.

That’s definitely part of ‘Wintering’ too!

Chris Smith
Chris of Well & Wild is a friend of Wild & Other. Well & Wild help people connect with nature and themselves through outdoor education, physical training and conservation.