Flowing with the Seasons

Navigating Life’s Cycles and Finding Joy in Every Season

Growing up in Nigeria, the rhythm of the year was simple: rainy season and dry season. Those were the markers of time, shaping daily life and how we experienced the world. Now, living in the United States, I find myself navigating four distinct seasons—winter, spring, summer, and fall—and noticing how they’ve changed me, both in obvious ways and in subtler ones.

I’ve always loved looking back at old pictures of myself as a child in Nigeria. My skin seemed to glow, rich and dark, almost as if the sunlight had soaked into it. Back then, life was mostly lived outdoors, under the open sky, bathed in natural light. Now, here in Georgia, my life is different. I spend more time indoors, working, raising a family, and managing the responsibilities of adulthood.

I try to make up for it—I’ve added time outside to my morning ritual, hoping to reconnect with the sunlight. But let’s be honest: a 30-minute walk can’t compete with the endless hours of playing outside as a kid. Still, this is where I am now. And rather than longing for what was, I’m learning to embrace what is.

Winter: Cozy and Complex

Winter in Georgia doesn’t usually bring snow, but it does bring the cold. The days are shorter, the sun feels weaker, and the gloom can creep into my spirit if I’m not careful. Seasonal depression is a real thing, and I’ve felt its weight.

But here’s what I’ve learned: I don’t have to fight it. Instead, I’m giving myself permission to slow down and lean into the season. Some days, that means cozy socks, a warm cup of tea or cocoa, and snuggling under a blanket with a good book or show. Other days, it’s lighting up my home sauna to soak in warmth and restore my energy.

Just this morning, I realized I wasn’t quite ready to face the day. So, I took my work laptop back to bed, grateful for the flexibility of working from home. Meetings from under the covers? That’s a winter win in my book.

Winter may not be my favorite season, but it has its moments of beauty. The holidays bring connection and celebration—Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s, each one a chance to gather with loved ones and reflect on gratitude, abundance, and new beginnings.

Spring: A Breath of Fresh Air

Spring feels like a sigh of relief. The air warms, the flowers bloom, and the world wakes up again. It begins for me with my wedding anniversary in late March—a tradition my husband and I honor by doing something exciting together. Next year, we’re dreaming of Tulum, where I plan to bask in spa treatments and indulgent self-care.

As April rolls in, so do family adventures. We plan little trips and outings with the kids, soaking up the fresh energy of spring. By May, the beaches are calling, and it’s time to fully embrace the outdoors. Spring feels alive, hopeful, and full of possibility.

Summer: Radiance and Joy

Summer is when I come alive. The heat, the sun, the energy—it all feels like a celebration of life itself. My skin deepens into a rich, glowing tone, reflecting all the sunlight I’ve soaked in. It’s the season of birthdays, beach trips, and nonstop activity.

This year, I’m planning a spa day for my birthday—a full day to indulge in the care and attention that keeps me feeling radiant inside and out. Summer is my season of connection, movement, and joy, and I cherish every moment of it.

Fall: Reflecting and Letting Go

Fall is bittersweet for me. It starts beautifully—the leaves change color, the air cools, and nature feels alive in a quieter, gentler way. Those mild, sunny days when it’s just cool enough for a light sweater? They’re my favorite.

But as the leaves fall and the days grow colder, my energy shifts. It’s a time for letting go, for slowing down and preparing for the inward turn of winter. I honor the season by enjoying the simple pleasures—camping trips with the kids, cozy evenings by the fireplace, and the smell of autumn in the air.

Finding Balance in the Seasons

What I’ve learned over the years is that every season has something to offer, even if it’s not my favorite. Winter brings coziness and connection. Spring brings renewal and growth. Summer brings joy and radiance. And fall brings reflection and quiet beauty.

Instead of resisting the seasons I find challenging, I’ve started honoring them for what they are. I embrace the slower pace of winter, the bursts of energy in summer, and everything in between.

As much as I miss the simplicity of the seasons in Nigeria, I’m learning to appreciate the rhythm of life here in Georgia. It’s not perfect, but it’s mine. And for now, I’ll keep lighting the fireplace, pulling on my fuzzy socks, and finding joy in every phase of the year—because each one, in its own way, is a gift.

What’s your favorite season? How do you navigate the ones that feel harder? Let’s talk about it—I’d love to hear your perspective.

With love and light,

Chika B.