EP 257: Cozy, Not Lazy ~ Why Rest is Revolutionary in Eating Disorder Recovery + What "Wintering" Teaches Us

What if rest isn't laziness—it's wisdom? What if slowing down isn't a setback—it's the most revolutionary thing you can do in recovery?

In this episode, we're diving into the concept of "wintering"—the intentional act of stepping back, slowing down, and allowing yourself to rest and recharge, just like nature does. 

If you're in eating disorder recovery, this might feel like an absolute riot. Because your ED has convinced you that rest is weakness, that comfort must be earned, and that slowing down means you're flawed.

But sis, it's time to dismantle those lies.

Winter is the season of recovery. It's preparation time. It's when the earth takes what it needs so that spring can even happen. And you? You're allowed to do the same.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• What "wintering" really means and why it's essential for recovery
• Why the eating disorder makes you feel bad about comfort (and why that's a lie)
• How to reframe rest as "cozy" instead of "lazy"
• Why your body knows exactly what it needs—and how to start listening
• The beautiful truth about finding your own spark in the gray season
• How winter's silence gives you the choice to finally hear yourself

If you've been running on empty, pushing through exhaustion, or feeling guilty every time you slow down—this episode is your permission slip. Rest is not laziness. Rest is natural. And you deserve it.

KEY QUOTES FROM THIS EPISODE

💛 "You are allowed comfort. You are allowed to wrap yourself in a soft blanket. To eat warm, nourishing food. To sleep in. To say no. To take up space without earning it."

💛 "What if wintering isn't lazy—it's cozy? What if it's not weakness—it's wisdom? What if rest isn't a setback—it's natural?"

💛 "If plants and the earth are resting, so can you. The trees aren't apologizing for losing their leaves. The ground isn't hustling through winter. Nature understands that rest is not optional; it's essential."

💛 "Winter is the slow-down, the search for self. It's the pause that says, 'Who am I when I'm not running? Who am I when I stop proving? Who am I when I just... am?'"

💛 "This is not laziness. This is survival. This is healing. This is how you prepare for your spring."

IN THIS EPISODE, WE EXPLORE:

✨ The concept of "wintering" and why it matters in eating disorder recovery
✨ How the ED voice makes rest feel impossible—and how to challenge it
✨ Why comfort is not something you have to earn
✨ The difference between "cozy" and "lazy" (spoiler: rest is natural, not flawed)
✨ How your body already knows what it needs—you just have to listen
✨ Why winter's gray helps you see your own color and spark
✨ The gift of silence and choosing to listen to yourself
✨ How to give yourself permission to rest without guilt or shame

Ready to Get Support for the New Year Ahead?

You don't have to winter alone.

Recovery Collective: Group support program with 2x monthly coaching calls and community chat~ www.herbestself.co/recoverycollective 

One-on-One Coaching: Personalized support to help you discover your true identity and walk in freedom.

Learn more and apply at www.herbestself.co

Connect with Lindsey Nichol:

Website: www.herbestself.co

Apply for Coaching: www.herbestself.co

Instagram: @thelindseynichol 

Facebook Community: www.herbestselfsociety.com 

Share This Episode:

Know someone who desperately needs to rest and give herself grace but refuses to "winter"? I'd love for you to share this one.

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About the Host

Lindsey Nichol is a former competitive figure skater turned God-led entrepreneur, boy mom, and digital CEO. She understands how core beliefs formed in childhood can create and maintain eating disorder patterns, and she's passionate about helping women identify and transform these beliefs to find lasting freedom.

If this episode helped you feel hopeful again and remember your worth isn't found in your body or on your plate, please share it with someone who needs to hear this message. Your support helps more women break the chains of limiting beliefs.

*While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.