#5: Harnessing the Seasons in Denmark and Northern Europe for Mental Health Support
Jun 23, 2023
Unlike many other parts of the world, Denmark and the Nordic countries experience the full force and beauty of each season. When I first moved to Denmark, I was awestruck by the magnificence of spring after spending most of my life in Australia. The energy that surged through April, culminating in the vibrant bloom of May, went beyond the revival of nature—it also awakened the spirit of the people. Emerging from their winter hibernation, they craved the warmth of the sun on their skin, feeling alive and rejuvenated.
During this time, I stumbled upon a remarkable book titled "Wintering: The Power of Retreat and Rest" by Katherine May. In her insightful work, May explores winter as a season of rest, restoration, and even hardship—a time when our bodies, minds, and spirits seek retreat for deep healing.
May challenges the prevailing belief that constantly seeking the energy of summer and spring is the path to fulfilment, emphasising the importance of honouring our winter season for personal transformation. Our cultural conditioning often teaches us to view rest as something to be earned, exhaustion after labour as an honourable state, and depletion as a sign of dedication. These ingrained beliefs, originating from various sources such as war, colonisation, or patriarchal abuse, perpetuate misconceptions about the role of rest, restoration, and rejuvenation.
Whether we reside in a place that experiences all four seasons or just one, understanding the power and purpose of each season can help us harmonise with nature. Nature has always been our teacher, guide, and nurturing mother.
Each season tells a significant story about life and holds valuable messages that deserve our attention. However, it is vital to recognise how global warming is altering our seasons, as this affects our inherent connection to the environment and nature.
Personally, I have come to realise the importance of finding balance between the extremes of energy in winter and summer. There is a saying among Danes that their social calendars for summer are fully booked even before winter ends, highlighting the contrast between isolation during the colder months and the abundance of social interactions in summer. Coming from a country with consistently sociable weather for nine months, I have learned the significance of finding steady equilibrium to prevent burnout. As with many aspects of life, balance is key.
So, how can we make use of the gifts bestowed upon us by each season and tend to our mental health? The first step is acknowledging that we are not separate from nature or the seasons; we are an integral part of the intricate ecosystems.
"Wintering: The Power of Retreat and Rest" by Katherine May.Our physical and mental wellbeing are dynamic and constantly influenced by the environment we inhabit.
To consciously navigate the seasons within ourselves and the external world, we need to observe, acknowledge, and reflect on the needs of our minds, bodies, and spirits.
If we experience sadness, pain, or unease, it is essential to ask: "What does my body, spirit, or mind need in this moment? Is it retreat, attention, and nourishment akin to the energy of winter or autumn? Or does it require connection, celebration, and movement reminiscent of summer or spring?" There are times when retreating into our own caves to consciously or unconsciously process things becomes an act of self-care.
Other times, we yearn for abundance, inspiration, and creation. The duration of these periods can vary from a single day to months or even years, depending on our individual experiences and life transitions.
If you are inclined to explore and reflect upon what the seasons mean, look like, and feel like for you, I encourage you to embark on a personal journey. It may involve delving into the pages of "Wintering," engaging in conversations with a trusted confidant or embarking on a therapeutic path.
By embracing the seasons and aligning ourselves with the rhythms of nature, we can nurture our mental health and overall wellbeing.
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