The dark days of winter can be emotionally hard for many people. However, it doesn’t have to be this way.

Life comes to us in seasons. The summer days are long, hot, and bright. In contrast, winter days are short, dim, and chilly. We tend to favor the light and want to get away from the darkness. However, each has a place in life. We can learn to appreciate the value of each season.

In fact, there are so many wonderful things about winter. If we embrace them, instead of fighting against them, then the entire season takes on a new light.

Light a Candle in the Dark Days of Winter

The winter solstice is the shortest, darkest day of the year. That is why so many winter celebrations involve light. Humans literally light up the darkness during this time of year. In turn, that outer light helps bring us a warm inner glow.

Therefore, lighting candles can be a terrific winter practice. Place wonderfully scented candles all around your home. Light them often. You might engage in a warming ritual as you do.

For example, you could do a brief meditation before lighting the candle. Alternatively, you might mentally give thanks for something each time you blow out a candle.

Other ways to bring light into your winter include:

• Stop and listen to the silence of winter, and embrace nature’s quiet respite

• Add a new lamp to a favorite reading space

• Light up the fireplace

• Go out to look at your town or city lights at night

• Replace some of your home’s lights with pretty colored bulbs

Notice and celebrate the outer light as a starting point to enhancing your inner light.

Embrace the Concept of Hygge

You have probably heard the term hygge in the past year. It is a very trendy term. Trends aside, however, this long-standing Danish practice is worth learning more about. It is a broad lifestyle concept.

Simplified, however, it basically means celebrating the small, cozy things. Brainstorm a list of winter things that make you feel cozy and indulge in them often.

For example,

• Steaming cups of coffee, tea, or cocoa

• Layering on warm, thick sweaters

• Hot bowls of hearty soup

• Standing in front of the heater as it emanates warmth

• Wearing your favorite thick socks and warm scarves

Find Healthy Ways to Hibernate

Some animals hibernate in the winter. You can take a cue from this. In other words, think of the dark days of winter as a time to rest, cocooning inside of the nest of your own home.

Of course, you don’t want to just isolate yourself in loneliness. But there are many things that you can do to enjoy restful time at home.

For example,

• Begin a new hobby such as embroidery or adult coloring

• Check out a stack of books from the library and read for hours

• Immerse yourself in the cozy warmth of a bubble bath

• Journal; the dark days of winter are perfect for reflection

• Meditate; light an internal warmth in your own heart center

Connect with Others in the Dark Days of Winter

Keep in mind, hibernating doesn’t necessarily mean doing things alone. Invite others to enjoy your cocoon.

You might just invite friends and family over to enjoy a simple meal together. Bake fresh bread, brownies, or cookies. Pour your favorite beverage. Then talk late into the night.

This is also a great time of year to be of service to others. Find ways to volunteer in your community. If you want to stay home, you can make handmade items to donate to those in need. Take the focus off of yourself and think about ways that you can light the path for others.

Don’t fight the dark days of winter. Embrace them. Of course, stay aware of your own emotions. If you find yourself grappling with seasonal blues, reach out for depression therapy. Learn more here.