Winter tells us to chill out. But that doesn’t mean we have to sit still.
The dictionary says rest is “to cease work or movement in order to relax, refresh oneself, or recover strength.” Most people would think of activities like sleeping, taking a warm bath, watching television, reading a good book, or doing a hobby. But not everyone thinks the same way.
My family and I enjoy outdoor activities year round. Stopping movement to rest and relax doesn’t really apply to us. Fun activities and rest can go together. After moving, the rest just feels better.
There are so many fun winter activities in the Comox Valley that enable us to unwind. For me, these include downhill skiing, hanging out at Raven Lodge, hiking, snowshoeing, or a hot tub after a swim at the pool. Many people wouldn’t describe these things as rest, but they definitely help me forget about any stress, calm me, and make me feel rejuvenated. Maybe it’s the power of the fresh air or working up a little sweat.
What do you do when you get home to rest? I like to shower and then relax in front of the television. By then I have earned this down time. And then, at the end of this kind of day, feeling fatigued, I get ready for bed with a mind that somehow feels fresh.
And what about the natural world all around us? It needs rest, too. I found this quote online: “While it’s true that winter can seem void of life and activity, I have come to appreciate the quietness of the season. Just as Mother Earth unwinds, gathering resources and energy before her burst of creative rebirth in the spring, we, too, need this time of turning inward, to contemplate and just be. For me, winter is a time to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the miracle that is nature.”
As Mother Earth unwinds, we feel the quietness of the season. The snow and rain and short days, they have been going on forever, since long before humans came to this place. It’s nice to think about that. It is like nature is resetting itself to explode into spring with all those colours we love so much. Nature is everyone’s best friend and it needs time to unwind, the same as we do.
So, I’m not sure I really like the dictionary definition of the word “rest.” Maybe it’s strange to argue, but I’m happy to stick with my own version. Then again, if you will excuse me, I’ve done my exercise, it’s cold outside, and I’m getting sleepy, so I’m off to take a nap…
