The Art of Savoring: Finding Joy in the winter

The Art of Savoring: Finding Joy in the winter

The morning mist has started settling over everywhere, the ceiling fans have finally been turned off, and there is a distinct, crisp shift in the air. In India, the end of the year isn’t just a date on the calendar; it’s a feeling. It’s the season of weddings.

If I’m being honest, I spent many years treating December like a marathon. I was sprinting toward a finish line of “perfect” New Year plans and frantic year-end deadlines. But as I look back on 2025, I’ve realized that the moments I actually remember aren’t the ones that went exactly according to plan. They’re the messy, unscripted, and quiet moments in between.

Shifting from “Doing” to “Being”
It’s easy to get lost in the hustle. The shopping, the travel bookings, and the social obligations. But this season, I’m challenging myself to focus on “being.”

Instead of stressing over the “perfect” party, I’m focusing on the warmth of the conversation happening around the table. There is a specific kind of magic that happens when we stop trying to manufacture a “holiday experience” and simply let it unfold over a hot cup of Tea.

My “Small Joy” Checklist
To help myself stay grounded, I’ve started a list of the small things I want to savor this week:

* The Afternoon Sun: Spending twenty minutes soaking up the winter sun, nature’s best recharge.

* The Scent of the Season: Whether it’s fresh marigolds or a simmering pot of cinnamon and cardamom.

* A Real Connection: Taking the time to call an old friend instead of just sending a “Forwarded” WhatsApp greeting.

* The Evening Glow: Sitting in the living room with only the festive fairy lights turned on.

How to Ease into the Holiday Spirit
In our fast-paced culture, we often try to switch from “work mode” to “holiday mode” overnight. Usually, that just leads to burnout.

Here is how to gently ease into the break:
* The Digital Sunset: Turn off work notifications a day earlier than you think you need to. Let your brain stop scanning for emails so it can start noticing the scenery.

* The Mental Brain-Dump: Write a list of everything you need to tackle in January. Getting it out of your head and onto paper ensures you won’t spend your holidays subconsciously worrying about work.

* Embrace the “Soft Launch”: You don’t have to start with a big party. Put on some soulful music, wear your most comfortable clothes, and let the festive feeling arrive in whispers.

* Say “No” to the Extra Invitation: It’s okay if you don’t attend every single gathering. If your soul needs a quiet night in with a book more than a loud party, give yourself permission to stay home.

A Note of Gratitude
Beyond the festivities, the true highlight of my year has been you.
In a country as vast and diverse as ours, finding a community that shares these reflections is a gift. Whether you’ve been a long-time reader or you just happened to stumble upon this post today, thank you for being part of this journey. Your support is what makes this digital space feel like home.

Looking Ahead
As we stand on the threshold of 2026, let’s carry forward the warmth of this season. Let’s head into the New Year with resilience, hope, and a commitment to being a little kinder to ourselves.

Wishing you and your family a peaceful holiday season and a brilliant New Year ahead!

Until again, Take care.