Reflections on a Snow Day (or 10…)

 by Megan Cole, MSW, LCSW

In the South, we aren’t used to getting the snow and ice that has battered our region the past two weeks. We simply don’t have the infrastructure to clear roads, parking lots, and driveways quickly and efficiently like they do in snowier parts of the country. Around here, when we get big winter storms (well, let’s be honest, even little ones), everything grinds nearly to a halt for at least a day or two.

Like most parents in the area, I have spent the better part of the past 10 days trying to keep my 6-year-old occupied. We’ve played all the board games, watched all the kids’ movies, eaten all our snow snacks, consumed gallons of hot chocolate, and read books until we’re cross-eyed. There have been moments when I was ready to go plow the backroads myself so that schools could reopen and we could get back to our regular schedules!

But, in the midst of trying to balance working from home with my husband (which I am so fortunate to be able to do on snow days), keep our daughter occupied, and make sure the dogs are getting enough exercise, there have been a few lessons I’ve learned that I hope to carry forward into the years ahead, and teach to my daughter as she grows and is able to understand.

Take time to notice the little things. During this most recent storm, I made sure we stocked up on birdseed and filled our feeders. I loved watching the chickadees, cardinals, and tufted titmice visit the feeder while the snow swirled around them. I’ve marveled at their tiny little footprints in the snow where they’ve hopped around. The porchlight shining on the snow as it fell at night looked like silver glitter. It was indescribably beautiful. And the blessed, perfect silence of the snow as it falls: no traffic sounds, no dogs barking, no airplanes—just the quiet. Taking time to really observe the beauty around us, and engaging all 5 senses in the experience, grounds us in a mental space that is calm and centered.

 

Give yourself permission to slow down. In the wintertime, most animals slow down, and some go into hibernation until the weather warms. With shorter days and colder weather, the world seems to be urging us to do the same, especially when snow closes work and school. Let yourself rest a little more. Linger under the covers a bit longer in the morning, or snuggle up in bed with a good book a little earlier at night. Put the phone away, and read a book or work a puzzle. Prioritize the invitations you accept so that your focus and energy are being spent on the people, places, and things that mean the most.

Spend some time with your inner child. One of the things I find most rewarding about parenting is getting to see the wonder and joy in my daughter’s face when she experiences something new, even something simple. Watching her build a snowman, slide down her snow-covered slide on her backyard playground, and make snow angels has brought back so many happy memories of my own childhood. On snow days, spend some time recalling your own beloved snow day memories. Consider writing some of them down in your journal.

 

Reach out for connection. In my house, snow days are often quite chaotic, but for others, especially those who live alone, are elderly or disabled, these days may be profoundly lonely. Check in on your family members, friends, and neighbors. Even a quick phone call or text message has the power to lift their spirits (and yours). If you live alone and are starting to feel the effects of one too many days at home, don’t be embarrassed to be the one to reach out first. Humans are wired for connection to others. Admitting that you are lonely is never a sign of weakness.

 

During the Winter, the trees, plants, and animals around us all rest and prepare for the warmth and burst of growth that occurs with the return of Spring. For humans, the Wintertime can likewise be a period of introspection, of rest, and inner growth and development. Being attuned to the simple beauties of the natural world, taking time to slow down and care for ourselves, taking a trip down memory lane, and connecting to the people and activities that mean the most can help boost our spirits—and our energy.  

If you are having trouble finding moments of peace and connection during this Winter season, reach out to the Ancora Compassionate Care Counseling Center. We offer sessions in person or via our HIPAA-compliant Zoom platform, to help you set and achieve your mental health and wellness goals. We accept Medicare, managed Medicare, and most commercial insurance plans, and offer a sliding scale for individuals who are uninsured or underinsured. We’re here when you’re ready. To refer yourself or a loved one, call (336) 427-9022, and ask to speak with someone in Counseling Center intake.