How ‘Nesting’ Can Help You Thrive This Winter
This one simple re-frame can support you in meeting your needs this Winter!
Nesting? Isn’t that for expecting mothers?
Most people would agree that traditionally, the term nesting has been reserved for expecting mothers preparing their space for a new baby, or birds gathering materials and building nests to keep their eggs safe. However, one definition of nesting, as seen in Collins Dictionary, broadens the scope of this word - it defines nesting as a way to make a SPACE comfortable, to increase our feelings of safety and control.
Definition found here: https://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/english/nesting
Winter can come with a lot of discomforts - cold, snow (and the work that comes with it), dark days and nights, less activity, and more isolation. It can feel like despite our best efforts, we do not have control over the way that winter affects us. And while it is true that we cannot change Mother Nature, we can make small, sustainable changes to our own environment to help promote safety, comfort, and ultimately regain a sense of control.
Ways to Nest?
You may find yourself asking ‘well, how do I nest if I’m not getting the space ready for a baby? I don’t even know what I would do!
Remember that the goal is to make your space more comfortable for YOU! Think about where you find comfort, and times where you have felt comfortable in your space (or in other spaces). Consider your five senses (sight, hearing, smell, touch, taste) and how you can promote calm and comfort in each domain. When you set up your space to prioritize comfort for your senses, you are nesting.
Examples:
Stockpiling and freezing meals
Adding blankets and cozy textures
Increasing use of alternative lighting, candles and diffusers
Creating a coffee/tea/hot-chocolate station
Reorganizing your pantry/cupboards to reduce clutter and decision fatigue
Ready to embrace the concept of nesting? Here’s a simple 3-Step way to start
ASSESS YOUR ENVIRONMENT
YOU get to decide how you want to build your ‘nest’ in a way that will support you. Just as birds do, you will want to consider what resources and skills you have available to you. Are you great at cooking/baking? Do you enjoy deep cleaning to your favourite podcasts? Are you a crafter? Take stock of the resources and skills you already have, before looking at taking more on.
You will also want to consider what challenges you may face as we enter the winter months. This will help you create a nest that actually sustains you and survives the winter! Are you someone who struggles with the lack of sunlight? Maybe your nesting process will involve adding lighting to your space. Or if you are someone that struggles to make nutritious dinners after work (in the dark!), maybe your nesting process will involve stocking up your freezer with pre-portioned meals or soups.
Once you have completed your assessment, you can start gathering materials and building your nest!
COLLECT & BUILD
Notice how birds don’t wait until they have every branch collected before they start assembling their nest? Instead, it is a gradual process that often involves collaboration. If you are living with others, you may want to involve them in this process! There is no rush to take this all on at once - you can allow your nest to unfold with each tiny addition, and integrate the support you get along the way.
ENJOY & ADJUST
Finally, enjoy your nest! How does it feel, really, to be in it? Which senses are engaged? You may even feel called to journal about your experience.
As you spend time enjoying your nest, notice if there are things that you would like to adjust or add. Just like birds, and new mothers, you will learn with time what is supportive for you and your nest, and what still needs adjusting. This is a natural part of the process and will ultimately help you maintain control and trust in yourself, as you continually identify and meet your needs.
Thanks for reading, and happy nesting!