“Winter is a time to slow. To grab hold of that wheel that spins your days too quickly and give it a firm tug. To let your thoughts catch up with your body. To pin down that idea that’s been circling your mind for months. To remember that life isn’t an emergency.”
— Kelsi Turner

Today is one of those February days that seem to occur more rarely than I recall during the winter months of my childhood. A day where local meteorologists portend doom and gloom, warning us that the sky is falling so we should beware. Today there is a “Winter Weather Warning” with the potential for not simply a few inches, but over a foot of snow.

Schools are closed. Businesses sent employees home early. I baked some bread–which makes the house smell good–and now sit here happily with a cup of tea, feeling as though I’m immersed in a snow globe that someone has vigorously shaken.

This Warning hasn’t affected me too much. I did Virtual Yoga, instead of attending a live class. And, I was able to get both to the grocery store–the store shelves a bit barer than usual–and to my daughter’s doctor appointment–which was rescheduled so the office staff could go home early.

Like I said, the sky is falling.

Outside, I’m beginning to hear the tell-tale sound of shoveling, and I wonder if I should pull out the snow blower and clear the first layer of wintery mix from my driveway.

However, I decide to remain indoors, cozy in my sweats, cardigan, and slippers. The snowfall is so quiet. Snow blankets the world in white and demands one very obvious thing when it arrives so dramatically.

It demands that we slow down. It demands that stay indoors–or, if we go out, it requires us to be more mindful as we drive on the roads or walk on sidewalks. Snowy days offer an excuse to snuggle under a blanket with a book or watch a movie. Snowy days invite us to relax and take it easy–inside.

Nope, can’t go out … too much snow and nowhere to go!

Curious that we need a winter storm to do something that is ultimately so good for us. Slowing down, settling in, taking our time, giving ourselves permission to rest, read, write a blog, or take that nap.

Our lives are so busy. December is a whirlwind of activity and events. The month is consumed by Holiday plans with family. Concerts. Baking and cooking. School and work commitments. Shopping. Our to-do lists are massive, our calendars are full, and our stress level is off the charts. Then come January and February–and Winter. The temperatures drop and the weather becomes more unpredictable, as though it realizes that we are ready for a long winter’s nap. That for our well-being and mental health we need a little chilly time. That for our own well-being, we need an opportunity to hibernate, even if only to get ready for whatever comes in the spring months.

When I encounter days like today, I intuitively recognize them as invitations or opportunities to slow down. To be honest, though, it takes me a bit to unwind. I’m quick to pop up after a page or two of my book, to notice some dust that needs my immediate attention, or to think of something I need to do other than settle my body, mind, and spirit into a little stillness and quiet. I actually find it’s necessary to give myself permission to stop and rest. I’m still coming to terms with the knowledge that rest is good for me. Necessary. Helpful. Needed. Nurturing.

I mean, there are numerous other “things” competing for my attention and calling me to action. Probably the same can be said for others. Stillness does not come easy. But, I’m recognizing that this stillness I create helps me manage the tumultuous ocean waves that stir beneath the surface.

I’ve started meditating, which teaches me the importance of finding a few quiet moments and focusing not on my to-do list but on my breath. It’s becoming more natural to begin my day with a meditation practice. And, there are benefits to this slower, more mindful morning activity. I find that no matter what comes my way, I’m a bit more patient with myself and others after meditation and breath work.

Slowing down is good for me. And good to me. It gives me time to check-in. To see how I’m doing and take steps to better care for myself.

Today is a Snow Day. They happened often when I was a kid thanks to lake effect snow. I loved them then. I love them now –especially when I have nowhere that I truly have to go and can make the most of the time to slow down. It’s a day where we can nestle in to enjoy those inside projects or choose to go outside and discover our inner child, perhaps build a snowman or make a snow angel.

In the quiet, I restore … Snow Days are good. Think I’ll plan one again. Next time perhaps I’ll plan one when there’s no snow.