February is the shortest month……….

I notice that a year ago I wrote about Wind….and Snow…..in my February posts.

What is it about February in the northern hemisphere that provokes a concentration on climate conditions? DSC03201

The paradox of February is perhaps that the extreme weather we get (2 feet of snow here after a dry winter, for example) is in contrast with the lengthening days, the increased energy and outward focus. The hibernation instinct releases its grip.

The desire to spend more time outside, being more physically active  in daylight is often frustrated by snow and rain………Margaret Atwood’s poem February depicts it as a transitional month.

Many people battle depression or experience a lowering of the spirits & energy in winter. People who suffer from SAD start to feel better as days noticeably lengthen. Up in the Arctic the sun has returned and people are becoming happy again. Next month many countries will put their clocks forward and suddenly the evenings are restored.

Journal prompt: What do you notice in yourself as the days get longer? Think about your physical, mental and emotional energy. 

Do you notice any annual patterns or rhythms?

Is there anything in February which lifts your spirits? A ritual? An annual event? If not, what could you introduce?


Published by Kate Thompson

Kate Thompson, MA, CJT is a BACP (British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy) senior accredited Supervisor & Counsellor who trained in London and at The Center for Journal Therapy, Denver, Colorado after a first degree in English Literature at the University of Cambridge, UK. She is an existential therapist who works with writing as part of her pratice.

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1 Comment

  1. Hi Kate

    Great to talk with you just now…
    As a February baby (25th) my mother told me “you brightened up the dullest month in the year by being born in it” ! For me therefore, I always feel that February is an exciting month. Its also the month when we first see snowdrops and daffodils (at least here in Norfolk) and we notice that there is more light at both ends of the day.
    Candlemas Sunday celebrates this too.
    Jennie C-Knight

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