As the new year kicks off, we’re bombarded with messages about fresh starts—perfect times to launch new fitness regimes, overhaul our lives, and embrace a clean slate. But if you’re in the northern hemisphere, winter’s reality doesn’t quite align with this idea of a “new beginning.” It’s still cold outside, with long nights and a deep craving for cozy blankets. While the world tells us to be productive, winter reminds us that it’s actually a time for rest, reflection, and restoration.
This time of year, we can lean into the concept of wintering—a practice that encourages us to slow down and honor the natural rhythms of our bodies, especially our menstruating bodies. Wintering isn’t about hibernating like a bear (though wouldn’t that be nice?), but rather about recognizing the importance of rest. It’s about embracing the stillness and acknowledging that rest is a vital part of supporting our well-being. As we enter the new year, maybe the most powerful fresh start we can make is giving ourselves permission to pause, reflect, and restore.
What is Wintering?
“Wintering is a season, a time of retreat, a place of healing. It's the time when we pause and give ourselves permission to reflect and restore.” - Katherine May
The term wintering was popularized by Katherine May in her book Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times. In the book, May talks about wintering as a time of retreat and healing, a season where we embrace quiet, reflection, and rest. This doesn’t just apply to the literal winter months; it’s more about understanding how our bodies sometimes need a pause, a time to restore energy before we jump back into action.
As May writes, “Wintering is a season, a time of retreat, a place of healing. It's the time when we pause and give ourselves permission to reflect and restore.”
It's about recognizing that our bodies need time to rest, just as nature does. While this idea isn’t specific to menstruation, it aligns perfectly with the natural rhythm of the menstrual cycle—where rest and reflection can be deeply important, too.
As for the new year, "It's satisfying to 'clear the decks' but you don't have to do it all today. Decluttering your mind with a nap or nature walk counts too, sweetheart. Go gently,” urges author Suzy Reading.
Wintering & Menstruation: A Beautiful Match
When we think about wintering and menstruation together, it becomes clear that they are more connected than we might think. Just like winter is a time for nature to rest and regenerate, menstruation can serve as a natural period for us to slow down, honor our bodies, and take a break from the pressures of everyday life.
Miranda Gray, author of The Optimized Woman, has long written about how women’s menstrual cycles align with the natural rhythms of the earth. As Gray puts it: “Our menstrual cycle is a reflection of nature's cycles. Each phase has its own unique rhythm and energy. When we learn to honor these phases, especially the reflective and restful stages, we are better able to support ourselves through menstruation.”
The subject of cycle synching has picked up speed recently through the #CyclicalLiving Movement because many of us can relate to the natural rhythm of our periods. During menstruation, many of us feel a dip in energy levels. Our bodies are shedding what’s no longer needed, and this can feel like a quiet, inward process—very much like the restfulness of winter.
Embracing wintering during this time is a way to listen to our bodies, give them the space to rest, and reset. It’s not about powering through; it’s about honoring the natural ebb and flow of our own rhythms.
The Power of Rest
Rest is not just about sleeping (though we know, a good nap during your period can feel like a divine gift). Wintering encourages a deeper kind of rest, one that helps us heal, reflect, and rejuvenate—not only physically but emotionally too. Winter is a reminder that when we slow down, we give our bodies permission to truly restore and prepare for the next cycle of action.
Not everyone feels the need for rest during their period. Yet those who do can benefit from aligning their menstrual cycles with the concept of wintering. It’s a powerful practice that doesn’t just support physical health, but mental and emotional well-being too. Here’s how wintering can help:
Listen to Your Body: During your period, your body is naturally asking for rest. Wintering allows you to honor that request and slow down. This could mean saying no to extra obligations or choosing to rest more than usual.
Caring for Your Menstrual Health: Wintering is also about taking the time to nourish your body. Think hot baths, cozy blankets, and a calming cup of tea—the kind of self-care that nurtures both your physical and emotional needs.
Tuning into Cyclical Rhythms: Menstruation is a natural part of a cycle, a rhythm of activity and rest. Wintering reminds us to embrace these moments of stillness and allow ourselves to rest and restore.
Mental and Emotional Clarity: Wintering offers clarity. Slowing down gives us space to reflect—not only on our bodies but also on our emotional well-being. This quiet time can help you get in touch with your deeper needs and offer emotional healing.
How to Embrace Wintering During Your Period
Ready to embrace wintering during your next period? Here are a few gentle ways to get started:
Say No to Overcommitments: Wintering is about honoring the need to slow down, so don’t feel pressured to keep your schedule full. Take this time for yourself and say no when necessary.
Create Your Comfort Zone: Surround yourself with warmth and comfort. Think cozy blankets, a warm drink, and maybe even a good book or your favorite movie. There’s no better time to embrace your inner hermit and indulge in things that help you relax.
Allow Your Body to Rest: Whether it’s more sleep, a peaceful walk in nature, or just lying down to breathe deeply, honoring your body’s need for rest is crucial during your period.
Honor Your Cycle: Your period is a time of natural reflection. Use this time to check in with yourself, your needs, and your emotions. Journaling or meditating can be powerful tools during this time of introspection.
Support Your Body with Natural Period Products: Consider using eco-friendly, organic menstrual products that are soft and gentle on your body and the planet. When you’re taking time to rest, your period deserves the best care, too.
Embrace the Magic
The most emboldened embodiment of the wintering process is the ancient Gaelic goddess of winter, Cailleach. This divine feminine crone archetype represents the darkness, void, and death that accompanies winter. But she is also known as the great-grandmother of the Earth and Mistress of the Wild.
As the Feminine Rise podcast expresses, our culture of eternal summers has caused us to lose touch with this magic. Yet this wintering magic is essential for the true blossoming of spring and summer.
Just let this magic sweep over you for a moment.
Even on the darkest of days, we can remember the restorative power of wintering. By honoring this process, we can create space for deeper reflection, rest, and renewal, allowing ourselves to emerge stronger and more aligned with the natural cycles of our own bodies and lives.