
While society is always telling you to “hustle harder!”, winter whispers something different – “Rest”. This is permission for you to hibernate like a boss. Rest and slow living isn’t laziness; it’s rebellion against burnout.
Sleep and Rest – Your Secret Weapons
Some people say “I’ll sleep when I’m dead”. While that’s true, you’ll die a lot sooner if you don’t get adequate sleep! Your body and mind heal while you get your beauty rest, which boosts your immune system and promotes mental clarity amidst life’s chaos. By resting now, you’re sharpening your edge for spring.
Trees go dormant and many animals hibernate – Shouldn’t we take the hint? I love to indulge in this rest and reflection time of year through couch naps and journaling. Come spring, I plan to emerge as a wiser, bolder butterfly.
Rest As a Ritual – Building an Evening Routine
The strength to conquer each day comes from clarity, not chaos. So it’s a good idea to wind down intentionally and maximize your rest time.
Rebel against your instincts if you need to :
- ditch the doom scroll – swap your phone for a journal or a book
- incorporate calming habits like herbal tea, dim lighting (warm white Xmas lights are lovely!), gentle yoga in bed, and ambient instrumental music or just white noise
- try blackout curtains if you don’t like to see the ass crack of dawn (like me)
Slow Living Isn’t Weakness – It’s Power in Disguise
This is the ideal time of year for a few extra doses of self care. Naps, self reflection, and even occasional creative daydreaming now can do wonders for the busy months ahead.
Ask yourself:
- What can I learn about myself right now?
- What habits, people, or mindsets can I let go of?
- What changes would I like to make this spring and summer?
- What small steps can I make now to prepare for a vibrant year?
Conclusion
Rest isn’t just a pause; it’s an intentional rebellion against the constant pressure to always do more. Hibernate now so that you can rise stronger with clarity and purpose come spring.
This February, I challenge you to embrace the power that come from rest. Hibernate like a boss, and be sure to journal about the badass butterfly you’ll become. Take 10 minutes today to plan your hibernation ritual and commit to at least one act of rebellion against burnout.
If you liked this post, please give it a “like”, share it with someone you think would enjoy it too, & let me know in the comments below what your hibernation plans are!

PS – Just for fun, here’s a little coloring book page that you can print out or copy to color, or do with as you please! ❤


