avatarFabrizia Scapinello

Summary

The author expresses a personal affection for winter, detailing eight non-Christmas related reasons that make the season special, including the slower pace of life, the beauty of snow, winter sports, the coziness of a fireplace, seasonal cuisine, hot beverages, comfortable clothing, and the comfort of bedding.

Abstract

The article titled "8 Reasons Why I Love Winter" presents a heartfelt appreciation for the winter season beyond the festivities of Christmas. The author argues that winter's slower pace encourages introspection and quality time with family, enjoying activities such as reading and playing board games. The magical experience of snowfall, the thrill of skiing and snowboarding, and the warmth of a fireplace are highlighted as unique joys of the season. Culinary delights like hearty soups and traditional dishes, along with the pleasure of sipping hot tea, add to winter's charm. The author also cherishes the comfort of winter attire and the luxury of cozying up in a duvet. While acknowledging the allure of Christmas, the author emphasizes the importance of embracing winter's tranquility and opportunities for relaxation.

Opinions

  • Winter is appreciated for its ability to slow down the pace of life, allowing for more introspection and family time.
  • Snow is seen as a calming natural phenomenon that creates a serene atmosphere.
  • Skiing and snowboarding are considered peak winter experiences that offer unparalleled peace and excitement.
  • A lit fireplace is described as a source of comfort and nostalgia, particularly for those who grew up in rural areas.
  • Winter food, such as roast meats and traditional dishes like bagna caoda, is celebrated for its heartiness and seasonal ingredients.
  • The ritual of drinking infusions and hot tea is cherished as a soothing evening routine.
  • Wearing comfortable jumpers is likened to receiving a warm, woolen hug.
  • The use of duvets and wool blankets is associated with improved sleep quality during winter.
  • The author suggests that the true essence of winter can be overshadowed by the busyness of Christmas and advocates for appreciating the season's quieter moments.

8 Reasons Why I Love Winter

No, none of them are Christmas

Photo by Alex Padurariu on Unsplash

Many people prefer the warmer seasons, I know.

We all love the summer and the long days when the sun goes down when it’s almost evening.

But winter has its own advantages and I like it very much. Let me tell you why.

  1. Slowing down the pace

Winter invites us to pause, to slow down, to look inside ourselves a little more often.

Even with the excuse that it’s darker earlier and it’s cold outside, we all spend more time indoors in the winter.

Sometimes it allows us to find more time to read, learn new things, cultivate our hobbies, spend more time with our families, and even play board games.

2. Snow

In certain areas, winter is synonymous with snow. Snow can be incredibly relaxing.

Watching the snowflakes fall while staying indoors is as calming as looking at the sea and listening to the waves.

If you have ever experienced this, you know that snow muffles sound and creates such a magical atmosphere by covering the landscape.

3. Ski & Snowboarding

For those who like to practice this kind of sport, wintertime is the best season, as it’s the only one that allows you to jump on a cableway and reach the top of a snowy hill.

Skiing is an unforgettable experience. The sound of skis sliding on the snow and the crunch of the snow responding to each turn, the silence and peace of the high mountains are truly remarkable.

If you have never tried skiing before, I highly recommend it. Don’t get discouraged during your first lessons; with practice, you will soon be able to enjoy the descent.

4. Fireplace

I don’t know how many of you have ever had the experience of lying on the sofa in front of a lit fireplace, but I will tell you that it is a wonder.

The smell of the wood, the crackling sound of the flame, the warmth that invades you and warms your face.

I grew up in a house in the countryside, so the lit fireplace has always been synonymous with winter.

5. Winter food

Winter offers a variety of culinary delights, including steaming polenta, roast meats, lasagne, cream soups, and soups with seasonal vegetables.

In Piedmont, the region of Italy where I come from, winter is the time to prepare bagna caoda, a delicious garlic and anchovy cream that is usually eaten hot, dipped in raw vegetables such as carrots, cabbage, fennel, and potatoes.

And let’s not forget the aroma of walnut cake, dried fruit, and… hot chocolate!

6. Infusions and hot tea

Before going to bed in the evening, sit in a comfortable armchair and enjoy a warm cup of herbal tea while reading a book or browsing through a magazine.

Some families also have a habit of having tea at five o’clock. This is an English tradition, of course, but it’s not confined to the UK. A nice steaming cup that can be accompanied by biscuits for those with a sweet tooth.

7. Comfy jumpers

Do you know the time of year when we change wardrobes? We put away the linen tops and take out the woolen jumpers. Even if it’s still too hot, don’t you feel like wearing them right away? Winter jumpers are like a warm hug made of wool.

8. Duvet and wool blankets

Similarly, when we take out the duvet. I know couples who argue for weeks about when to take the duvet out and put it in the bed.

Usually, the story goes that she wants to take the duvet out in early autumn, while he negotiates to keep it in until at least early November.

We usually enjoy better sleep in winter, by the way.

Post scriptum: I like Christmas, but…

I like the Christmas season, let me be clear. I like the lights, the Christmas trees, the decorations, the carols, the atmosphere.

But I think sometimes we fill Christmas too much with social gatherings and family reunions, and we lose some of the opportunities for peace and relaxation that winter offers us.

This is not a complaint, it’s just a point of reflection.

Do you like winter? What are your favourite things about winter? Let me know in the comments.

If, like me, you’d rather stay at home and read or do your hobbies than go to a crowded party, you’re probably an introvert. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, check out my article below.

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Winter
Christmas
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