Every season has its unique charm, but among them all, winter possesses an enchanting ambiance that many of us can’t resist, especially the crisp chill in the air, the enticing scent of hot cocoa and the comforting warmth of woollen blankets. Winter is synonymous with holidays, celebrations and a myriad of delicious seasonal treats.

There’s a universal joy in the idea of cosying up in a blanket, surrounded by the comforting warmth of hot, chocolate, coffee, tea or soup. With a gathering of cousins and family members, each bundled up against each other, our conversations take turns from shared moments of laughter to the adventurous and sometimes scary tales that our grandparents often tell. I believe this cosy bonding is the true essence of this season that no other season can bring.

However, winter brings with it a contrast of emotions that sharply divides those who eagerly wait for its arrival from those who endure its chilly embrace with little enthusiasm, or I must say detest even the thought of it.

For many, regardless of their stance on winter, the season inevitably unfolds as a time of festivities and intimate gatherings. The prospect of sharing cosy moments around a crackling fire with friends and family becomes a common ground that bridges the gap between lovers and haters alike. So let’s find out who you are!

What winter lovers find exciting

Winter isn’t just a season; it’s a cherished chapter in the annual cycle for many people. It’s a time that not only refreshes, but also inspires hope and renews spirits. To winter enthusiasts, the season holds significance beyond the mere drop in temperature — it symbolises a transformative period when nature changes its green attire to white, casting an enchanting spell over the world like a true magician. The very thought of winter invokes a sense of excitement and anticipation.

The warmth of winter

Winter lovers discover peace and joy in the serene offerings of the season. The cold air doesn’t just send chills down their spine; it playfully tickles their soul, encouraging them to embrace the season in every possible way. For them, the early sunsets and late dawns unveil new realms of creativity, while the snow-covered mountain tops create a majestic landscape that feels like a canvas waiting to be explored.

Fashion trends at its best

Winter brings with it a lot of changes not in our routine, but our wardrobes also change in response to the cold weather. We love adorning warm layers clothing such as coats, jackets, shawls, high boots, beanies, mittens and scarves to stay warm. They make us look amazing and we feel the joy of the season.

Culinary joys in the cold

One of the most comforting delights of winter is the seasonal cuisine. There is no match of the dishes that are made in other seasons to that of the signature winter dishes, such as stews, like nihari, and a variety of soups of various kinds, cookies, cakes and muffins, coffee and hot chocolate.

Across the world, heartier, warming meals packed with rich flavours are made and celebrated during this season. Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger add a touch of heat and aromatic sweetness. If your mum cooks and bakes, you know that it’s the time of the year when gajar ka halwa is the talk of every household. Not only this, many traditional cuisines are being made in this season only.

Winter food isn’t just tasty; it fills our hearts, as much as our tummies, with joy. Even when it’s freezing outside, the warmth from our stoves and the delicious moments we experience with our family while enjoying winter foods make our homes feel even cosier.

Movie nights are a must

Winter enthusiasts celebrate the season in every possible way. And with that, I mean when we snuggle in the warmth of a cosy comforter, armed with a bag full of peanuts, ready for a cinematic journey whether in the delightful company of our family or the tranquil embrace of a solo movie night. Winter lovers know how to make the most of cold nights.

Adventurous trips abound

To some winter lovers, the arrival of winter means it’s time to plan a trip — whether it’s skiing on snowy mountains, exploring a winter festival, or visiting family living in other cities or countries. The fun is not just travelling to enjoy the cold weather, it’s also about packing up for exciting adventures and happy reunions during this special season.

What troubles winter haters

On the flip side, not everyone is swayed by all the above details of winter attractions. Undoubtedly, a huge number of people don’t feel energised and excited by the drop in temperature. To them, the thought of cold weather just saddens them. It won’t be wrong to say that the stillness of winter symbolises a pause button in their life. They may view winter as a period to endure rather than celebrate.

The cold, biting winds are seen as obstacles to overcome, rather than contributors to the earth’s enchanting white beauty. Instead of embracing the festive spirit, they tend to avoid outdoor activities and find solace within the cosy confines of their homes.

The emotional toll of winter

For some, the dry, cold air of winter can exacerbate feelings of isolation and loneliness. The stark contrast between the festive atmosphere and their emotional state becomes more pronounced, contributing to a sense of detachment from the celebrations around them.

Apart from that, during winter, many trees shed their bright, green leaves, and the surroundings may appear dull and dry. This absence of lively colours can sometimes evoke feelings of loneliness or sadness. While winter may be alluring to winter lovers, those who loathe the season often find it depressing.

The impact on mood

The reduced daylight hours in winter, coupled with cloudy skies, can lead to a decrease in exposure to natural sunlight. This lack of sunshine is not merely a climatic concern, but also a potential trigger for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), as it is characterised by scientists as a type of depression related to changes in seasons. The resulting vitamin D deficiency may further impact mood, contributing to feelings of sadness and lethargy.

Activities become limited

While the lovers feel no hindrance in going out, the haters would avoid outdoor activities, limiting the opportunities for social engagement. The combination of reduced physical activity and decreased social interactions leads them to a heightened sense of stagnation and restlessness, worsening the feelings of dejection.

For the haters, my advice would be to understand that seasonal blues are a shared experience for many, just surround yourself with positive vibes — spend time with friends, engage in activities you love and let natural light enter into your living space. And remember, it’s okay to talk to someone if you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed.

So, whether you’re not a fan of winter or you really like it, there’s something for everyone. You can either stay cosy indoors or have fun with family and friends. No matter how you feel about it, just enjoy the change in seasons and discover the special magic that makes this time of year unique for each of us.

Happy winters and happy holidays!

Published in Dawn, Young World, December 16th, 2023