Winter's Wisdom: Embracing Rest in Motherhood

Winter is God’s gentle nudge for us to slow down. The days are shorter, the world becomes quieter, and even the trees seem to exhale as they enter a season of rest. In the same way, our bodies and minds need periods of stillness—especially in the midst of motherhood.

As moms, we are often caught in the cycle of doing: meeting everyone’s needs, keeping up with the demands of kiddos, and managing the endless to-do lists. But just as the earth needs winter to reset and prepare for new growth, so do we.

Pregnancy, postpartum, and raising little ones bring an intensity to life that can be both beautiful and absolutely exhausting. Our bodies work hard to grow, birth, and nurture life. Our minds are constantly running, planning, and worrying for the people we love most. And yet, how often do we remember to pause? To truly rest?

Rest isn’t something we deserve such as a pat on the back, a job well done; it’s something we need and something that God has commanded us to do. Like the trees in winter, we are still growing—even in the quiet moments. Rest allows our bodies to heal, our minds to clear, and our spirits to renew. It’s in these slower seasons that we can begin to nourish ourselves deeply: physically, emotionally, and especially spiritually.

This winter, I want to encourage you to embrace the season’s slower rhythm. Use this time to implement a family day of rest,  a Sabbath or Shabbat. Rest in knowing God’s grace and see how setting a day aside can impact your mindset for the whole week. 

Take time to nourish yourself and your family with warm, wholesome meals—soups, stews, and teas that wrap you in comfort and replenish your energy. Listen to what your body needs and honor its signals. Maybe that’s an afternoon nap while the baby sleeps, taking a family hike on the local trail, or reading scripture or a good book with a cup of hot cocoa. 

Slowing down can also mean simplifying your family’s routines. Maybe this season isn’t about doing more but about doing less. It’s okay to say no to the extra commitments or the expectation to do it all. You’re not failing; you’re creating space for what matters most. 

As you find those quiet moments, reflect on what brings life to you and your family. Winter reminds us that growth doesn’t have to be loud or busy. Sometimes it’s far more likely to be found in the pause, in the stillness, in the choice to rest.

Mama, your family needs you—but they need a version of you that is cared for, rested, and renewed. This season, let winter remind you to slow down, reset, and prepare for the new growth that will surely come.

You are doing beautiful, meaningful work, even when you pause. Let’s honor that this winter season.

'For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.'

Exodus 20:11