Books Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times  by Katherine May (Author)

"Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times" by Katherine May is a reflective and intimate book exploring how people undergo and survive difficult seasons in life, which May calls "wintering." This concept represents periods of hardship, illness, loss, or deep change when life feels cold, barren, and isolating.

May weaves her personal story of health struggles and emotional challenges with insights from nature, literature, mythology, and cultures accustomed to harsh winters. She examines how plants, animals, and humans withdraw and conserve energy during winter, drawing parallels to the necessity for rest, retreat, and self-care in hard times.

The book highlights that wintering is not merely suffering but a time of transformation and growth if embraced with grace and patience. May celebrates simple, everyday acts such as sea swimming, walking, and mindful creative activities as essential practices for healing and resilience.