Why the winter landscape still has plenty to offer
It may be tempting to hunker down and plan your routine around a heavy Netflix schedule but winter does have some unexpected advantages up its drafty sleeve.
I somehow managed to drag myself up for my first run in about six years this morning. I was rewarded with an expansive blue sky and wintery sunshine sweeping the surrounding fields. Feeling the cold prickle against my face was surprisingly welcome, as were the crisp gulps of air in my lungs. My under-worked muscles will probably complain later no doubt.
As seems customary with things we don’t like, there is evidence a winter chill does come with some notable health benefits. Studies have suggested being active in a cooler environment strengthens the heart since it works harder to maintain the body’s core temperature. And yep, for those already in excess of festive treats, it also means we burn more calories.
If you’re not in a hurry, not only is a winter walk a treat for the senses, but the landscape is bursting with curiosities we may not otherwise notice. Naked trees stand unabashed like yoga Goddesses, with their knots, nobbles and mottled bark characteristic of their respective species.
Another phenomenon is lichen. Although year-round, this friendly tree-cosy is a lot more noticeable during winter. The combination of algae and fungus is harmless and indicates the age of a tree since it can survive hundreds of years. The 1,700-strong species has created a lot of excitement in the ecology world and has even inspired its own dedicated field of study – lichenology. Try and see how many different types of lichen you can spot, from its rosette patterns and jigsaw piece-like lobes to cloudy-white blossoms – there is much to discover.
For those climate change inevitable damp spells, don your wellies and old clothes and get squelching. It’s surprisingly freeing when you’re not concerned about mud-spattered clothes. Child optional.
And if you’re staying in, try a spot of bird watching. Winter stalwarts include many of the UK’s common garden birds - the greats, the tits, and of course the robin. The festive pin-up is one of the country’s few species which sings all year round to defend its territory. They also couple-up over winter, so if you spot a pair it’s likely they’re ‘tweet’ hearts (couldn’t resist!).
The increasingly elusive sparrow is another staycationer but sadly its numbers are dwindling thought to be, in part, linked to climate change. Set up some bird feeders and try and spot one as they feast.
Twilight can be especially exciting in winter since it’s when starling murmurations begin their entrancing displays before settling down in their roosts. There are specific sites famous for these aerial performances, but chances are even those in an urban setting can catch the impressive sight unfolding over rooftops.
Winter is also prime time to hear the ghostly call of the tawny owl – the perfect ear tonic to lull you into a slumber.
And what better way to witness nature’s seasonal progression than to observe the moon phases. This year's final full moon is set to rise on December 19th and is aptly named 'Cold Moon'. Incidentally, January's new moon falls on the 2nd - perfect timing for some intention setting after sweating out the customary NYE hangover!
The cold and dark season does not have to equal lethargy or a prolonged duvet-day, just as summer doesn’t mean you must lark outside until midnight. Let go of your seasonal prejudice and take notice of the winter wonderland flourishing around us – and not the ones on the Netflix menu.
