I Just Read About What Our Brains Do in Winter — and It Changed How I See This Season

I recently read an article about what our brains naturally do during winter, and it honestly made me feel a lot more compassionate toward myself — and the slower pace this season seems to bring.

The article explains that winter isn’t a time when our brains are “underperforming.” Instead, our brains are doing something different.

What really stood out to me is the idea that our brains shift inward during winter. Neuroplasticity doesn’t stop — it just becomes quieter and more selective. Rather than constantly seeking novelty and stimulation, the brain focuses on strengthening existing pathways. In other words, winter is less about expansion and more about integration.

That reframing alone felt powerful.

Another takeaway that stuck with me was how deeply light affects our brains. Less daylight changes our circadian rhythms, increases melatonin, and impacts chemicals like serotonin and dopamine. That explains why motivation can feel different this time of year — not gone, just redirected. It made me realize that feeling more reflective or introspective in winter isn’t a personal failure; it’s a biological response.

The section on sleep really resonated too. Winter encourages more rest, and sleep is where so much emotional processing and memory consolidation happens. Instead of fighting the urge to slow down, the article suggests honoring it — because rest is actually part of how our brains heal and reorganize.

What I appreciated most is that the article didn’t frame winter as something to “push through.” It framed it as a season that’s especially well-suited for routines, habits, reflection, and internal work. Fewer distractions can make it easier to journal, meditate, or simply sit with your thoughts — even if that feels uncomfortable at times.

My biggest takeaway?Winter isn’t a productivity failure. It’s a neurological invitation to move differently.

And honestly, that permission feels like a relief.