I remember pretty vividly how we stomped through the deep white snow, surrounded by tall snowy birch and fir trees, covered in a layer of glittery ice. We climbed up the white hills, towards the bright rays of sunshine that were shining through the ice crystals on the fir needles – the world looked so magical! Everything was still, there was no movement, except for the sound of the ice and snow in the treetops. The air was bright and clear, we could see our breath while standing in the snowy wilderness. The earth was sleeping beneath winters blanket, and it was this magic that made its way into our hearts.

For me Winter is the most magical time of the year. Most people suffer due to the darkness and cold temperatures, but I love to wrap myself in a blanket, light some candles, and enjoy the cosy moments of the colder season to their fullest. I notice that as soon as Summer ends and Autumn arrives, my mood gets brighter and my heart is jumps with joy. I am just made for colder seasons and feel at my best when the temperatures drop and its dusky outside.

There are so many things that bring joy to our lives from November to February, like waking up to warm porridge and tea, long winter walks and soup for dinner and a hot bath afterwards. The nights are filled with scented candles, a favorite book or movie, knitting needles and yarn in front of the fireplace, making some warm mittens and socks. One could take a little trip up North to explore the snowy landscapes and forests. I remember one of the most magical moments last Winter when I spent some time in Ilomantsi, North Karelia, where I admired the Northern Lights and thousands of stars in the Finnish sky. We made our way through the deep dark forest with our lanterns and snow shoes, our only companions were the shadows of the trees. Later, when we saw the lights of a house in the distance, we turned off our lanterns and fell into the snow to watch the stars in the clear night sky. I never felt more at peace with the world.

Winter is the time for Christmas, and who doesn't love Advent? The world is full of joy, people have put up fairy-lights, baked cakes and cookies in preparation for the exchanging of gifts with our loved ones. Winter, the most wonderful time of the year, it is the time to come together and let go of the rush of everyday life. Winter is a wonderful time to get back to a slow and conscious life, to spread goodwill, love and peace.

Don't forget to give a snowman a kiss!

Words & images: Michelle, Daughter of the Woods

This time of the year makes me think of the different aspects of light and how my everyday life can become a bit brighter. Candles, fairy lights, lanterns, the options are endless. Some people prefer bio lamps which replace the Vitamin D filled sunlight causing endorphins to be released (the famous happiness hormones). When it’s gloomy and unfriendly outside it’s easy to feel down, demotivated and frustrated. Fellow creatives state that they have no energy and that it’s hard to come up with new ideas. Not only is their environment dark but they often feel as though the mind is in a kind of hibernation.

How can one fight that feeling? You can surround yourself with any of the different light sources I mentioned, or sit close to an open fire. I believe however, that it is the small gestures that enhance your own well-being and lift your mood. Some might find that to mean reading a good book, taking a hot both or perhaps writing a diary. Personally I have found that being kind to myself and treating myself with respect, cosy evenings with friends that are filled with laughter or a warming candlelight dinner with my husband have a very positive impact on me. I am certain that bringing light into other people’s lives improves ones mood too. No, I am not talking just about gifting someone candles or a light bulb; I am talking about bringing joy to others. The lonely nextdoor neighbour might seem happier after your visit, your friend who’s lost her job might feel better after a motivating text message. Helping your grandmother with her food shopping or treating your nephew to an afternoon at the movies adds to the cheerfulness in their lives, a feeling that will certainly bounce straight back to you.

What are your thoughts on light? What brightens up your winter months, your life or the life of people around you? Do you think it matters if you are with or without light?

Words & images: Katharina Geissler-Evans, heiter magazine

Cherishing the colder season

Light up: how to brighten up the darker months of the year