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Life Examined

Wintering and enchantment: A pathway to healing and happiness

Dec 24, 2023
British author Katherine May explores the concept of wintering as a period of rest and reflection for physical and psychological well-being. The podcast reflects on the parallel between difficult periods in life and the experience of grief, emphasizing the importance of valuing emotional well-being. The chapter discusses the profound lessons about life that can be learned from hibernating animals. The speaker reflects on the sensory landscape and altered consciousness that comes with being in the sea. They discuss the transition from wintering to finding beauty and meaning in the world once again. The podcast explores the feeling of enchantment and its diminishing as we grow older. The speakers reflect on the experience of seeking the green flash at sunset and finding solace in connecting with nature.
53:30

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Winter is a time for retreat, reflection, and rest, offering healing and solitude for personal growth.
  • Reclaiming a childlike curiosity and embracing the unknown is essential for personal fulfillment and finding wonder in everyday experiences.

Deep dives

Embracing the Value of Winter

English author Katherine May reflects on the value and importance of winter, comparing it to the gestational period in Celtic culture. She emphasizes that winter is a time for retreat, reflection, and rest, both physically and psychologically. May highlights the healing power of winter and the need to embrace the stillness and solitude it offers, even in an age focused on constant productivity and positivity.

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