Inviting softness, reflection and rest in amongst the busy energy of the end of the year

As the year draws to a close there seems to be an unspoken pressure to finish strong. As well as wrapping up projects at work, we might find ourselves ticking things off as we hustle through the holidays. I know that December is a month I really struggle with as the sparkliness of it all lures me in and causes me to vastly over estimate the energy I have available.

Since I have been more intentional about living cyclically in accordance with nature, the seasons and my own energy, I’ve found more balance with this. I remind myself often that it’s not yet spring and that there needs to be space to rest as well as sparkly lights and celebration. What might it be like to explore the rest of the year through softness, reflection, and rest?

The myths of "finishing strong" and “new year, new me”

It’s always interesting to me that December has such a different energy to the rest of Winter. I love Christmas, yule and the winter solstice but I also really notice how the energy of it can feel like it demands a lot from us. Our society tends to glorify the idea of pushing ourselves to our limits so it’s no wonder that so many of us feel drained by the end of the year. The truth is, winter should be a time for for slowing down, not sprinting to the finish line.

In contrast to the energetic drive of spring and summer, winter invites us into a quieter, more reflective space. The energy of the season is inwardly focussed, urging us to pause, rest, and rejuvenate rather than push forward relentlessly. This time of year calls for gentleness and introspection; a chance to honour the need for rest, self-care, and nourishment.

Leaning into winter: a Time for reflection, rest, and renewal

While the world around us may be gearing up for the hustle of a new calendar year, we are still in the middle of winter, both seasonally and energetically. The natural world teaches us that winter is not a time for new beginnings. Instead, it’s a time for consolidation, reflection, and restoration of energy in preparation for spring.

Long nights and cold days offer us a chance to draw inward, to process the year that’s passed, and to take stock of our lives. This doesn’t mean ignoring our aspirations or avoiding growth, but rather giving ourselves the grace to rest before the inevitable burst of energy that comes with spring.

How to create space for softness and nourishment in December

When we think about the themes of the winter solstice, which I talk about in more detail here, we can see how a call to bring light into the darkness aligns with how we celebrate Christmas. On the other hand, December is a month that can feel overwhelmingly busy. From preparing for the holidays to managing end-of-year work responsibilities, it’s easy to fall into a cycle of stress and over-scheduling. But amidst the chaos, there are simple, powerful ways to create space for more softness, slowness, and self-care.

Take some time each day to reflect: find a quiet corner, light a candle, and sit with your thoughts. This practice can help you release the pressure to do and invite you to simply be.

Prioritise rest and sleep: it’s easy to sacrifice rest during the busy holiday season, but winter is meant to be a time of restoration.

Simplify your holiday plans: saying no to some invitations and commitments allows you to preserve your energy and gives you the space to recharge. Remember: quality over quantity.

Cultivate self-compassion: be kind to yourself during this time, acknowledging that you don’t always need to be "on". Allow yourself moments of rest and peace without guilt and allow yourself the space to think about what you need and what might nourish you.

Finishing softly and embracing winter as a time for restoration

As we approach the end of the year, it’s important to remember that the transition into a new year doesn’t mean that we’re moving into a new cycle or season. Christmas happens in the depth of winter and we have a while until we move into the energy of spring.

While we might feel pressure to end the year with a burst of activity, the winter season invites us to honour our need for rest and rejuvenation.

When we lean into the quieter rhythms of winter, we prepare ourselves for the fresh beginnings that spring will bring — not through force, but through a gentle, grounded transformation. So this December, instead of pushing yourself to "finish strong," give yourself the gift of a soft, slow finish. A new season will come later. For now, it’s time to rest, reflect, and nourish yourself.

Did you find this post helpful? Share it with someone who could benefit from the reminder to finish the year softly.This post was written by me, Laura, at The Clear Space. The Clear Space offers integrative therapeutic counselling, somatic therapy, sound healing, nature therapy and ritual in Birmingham and beyond. If you’d like to work with me get in touch.