Warmth in the Winter
As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, many of us feel the weight of the cold months settle into our daily lives. These months can bring challenges—from icy sidewalks to long, dark evenings—that test our physical and emotional resilience. Yet, within these seasonal shifts lies an opportunity for self-care and renewal. How can we care for ourselves, mind, body, and spirit, as we navigate the chillier days?
First, it’s important to recognize the natural tendency to slow down during this time of year. Embrace it. Just as trees shed their leaves and animals hibernate, we, too, can benefit from adjusting our pace. This isn’t about giving up; it’s about tuning in to what your body and mind need. Think of this season as an invitation to rest and restore.
Winter often brings moments of solitude, which can feel heavy if we don’t approach them with intention. Instead of fearing the quiet, lean into it. Use these moments as a time for self-reflection, journaling, and connecting with your community.
Finally, don’t forget to appreciate the quiet beauty that winter offers. Bundle up and take a walk to notice how the world changes around you. Allow yourself to see this season not as a hurdle but as a unique phase of life, rich with its own lessons.
Consider this quote to carry with you:
“In the depth of winter, I finally learned that there was in me an invincible summer.” —Albert Camus
This winter, may you find your invincible summer—that inner strength and warmth that carries you through the coldest days. As always, Gilda’s Club is here to support you with programs and a welcoming community to help you thrive, no matter the season. Here are some programs that I recommend for connecting and care:
- Yoga Nidra: A Profoundly Deep Rest – In-person with Zoe Johnson
- Mondays from 12:30 – 2:00 pm
- Yoga Nidra is a guided meditation practice designed to induce deep relaxation with conscious awareness. Attendees are guided through a systematic deep relaxation process, encouraging a state of “yogic sleep,” where the body remains at rest while the mind stays aware. This state helps release physical, emotional, and mental tension, promoting a sense of inner calm and clarity.
- Benefits of Nature in Winter – Online with Erica Timko Olson, PhD, RN
- Wednesday, February 5 from 6:00 – 7:30 pm
- Learn how utilizing nature during the winter months offers a variety of physical, mental, and emotional benefits. Whether through physical activity, emotional healing, or simply enjoying the peace and beauty of the natural world, connecting with nature can play a vital role in supporting both the mind and body during treatment, recovery, and caregiving.
- Virtual Book Discussion – Online with Cindy Fandel
- Second Wednesday of each month from 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
- Take part in a lively and engaging virtual book discussion! Connect with others, share your thoughts, and hear different perspectives on the books you’re reading. Whether you’ve just started a new novel or have a favorite book you’d love to talk about, this is a perfect space to relax, socialize, and enjoy great conversations about literature.
- Gifts of Gratitude – Online with Joan Saunders
- Tuesdays in February from 6:00 – 7:30 pm
- This multi-session class explores how gratitude practices can bring us more peace and joy, even during the tough times. Participants will write and decorate pages in a gratitude journal to help deepen awareness of all there is to be grateful for and to enhance the depth of feelings.
- The Kids Can Handle It: Talking to Children about Cancer – In person with Shannon Meland and Sam Schackman
- Saturday, March 15 from 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
- There are so many different things to think about when it comes to your cancer journey. The child life specialists of Empowered Kids are here to help support one important part of your life–your kids. Kids continue to grow and develop and may need different information depending on their age and where you are in your cancer journey. In this educational session, Meland and Shackman will share insights and tools for how to feel ready for different conversations that may, and should, come up with your kids.
Sign up for these upcoming program offerings on our virtual program offerings page and in-person program offerings page, in your class registration account, or call us at 612-227-2147.
With love and gratitude,
Shaunequa James, MSW, LICSW
Program Director
612-227-2147 office | 952-767-7627 direct
10560 Wayzata Blvd., Minnetonka, MN 55305
