Overcoming Winter Burnout with Mindful Photography

Navigating Winter Burnout: A Journey Through Mindful Photography

Last year we were really fortunate to be offered financial support from Forensic Response UK. Each season we offer subsidised Mindful Photography workshops for the general public in or around the City of York and also community workshops to local organisations. This season our chosen workshop is gifted to Harrogate Women’s Project led by Kate Green where we shared the process of Mindfulness and Photography to twenty women.

Our theme through December and January focused on rest.

As winter unfolds, many of us find ourselves grappling with feelings of exhaustion and burnout. This year, I have noticed this in myself. When the skies are dull and grey it can cast a shadow over my motivation. Decision-making can feel like an uphill battle.

But there is something we can do to support ourselves, something which helps us to reconnect and find the motivation to get outside even if it is only ten minutes a day….. mindful photography.

Having engaged with local communities, I’ve witnessed first hand how people are struggling with burnout. The ongoing challenges have left many feeling depleted, and while participants recognise the importance of prioritising rest and wellbeing, self-care often feels like a term we use but never actually experience.

Beth says “I took this at Redgrave and Lopham Fen, Suffolk, during the Christmas break. Christmas can feel like a very busy and sometimes overwhelming time of year and it was great to find a moment of peace and stillness reflected in the quiet, misty environment of the fen. I loved the way the muted colours in the landscape echoed this sense of stillness and quiet.   When I am in nature I love soaking up the peace and tranquillity, but I am also a bit more observant of my surroundings as I am interested in nature and learning more about it. Both these things help me be more mindful and quietens my busy mind. Taking photos of what I see requires focus and attention, supporting the notion of being in the moment. On this occasion, I also felt uplifted on seeing a pair of marsh harriers and discovering a bright orange fungus (possibly Wrinkled Crust) which I hadn’t seen before”.

Beth’s feedback is so inspiring; what can you do to combat winter fatigue we’d love to know?

A great way to start is by looking to nature. Here are some more image from Beth.

Observing the trees during this season offers valuable insights into how we can also conserve our energy.

Trees shed their leaves and enter a period of rest, reminding us that we, too, cannot drink from an empty vessel. They teach us the importance of pausing, recharging and reflecting.

Incorporating mindful photography into our daily routines can serve as a powerful tool for self-care.

Taking daily walks and capturing the beauty of winter landscapes can shift our perspective. The simple act of framing a shot encourages us to engage with our surroundings and appreciate those subtleties that often go unnoticed.

Most importantly, maintaining connections with others, whether face-to-face or online, is crucial—even on the gloomiest days. Checking in with friends and sharing our experiences can lighten our mood. This mutual support fosters a sense of community, reminding us that we’re not alone in our struggles. Did you know we run a Facebook group for all our former learners? Email me to join up – it’s free!

As we navigate the challenges of winter and move into spring, let’s practice kindness towards ourselves. Embrace the slow pace that this season offers, and allow mindful photography to encourage us to reflect. By capturing the world through using even our smartphones, we can cultivate a renewed sense gratitude for what is right there on our doorstep.

Winter burnout is a common experience, but it doesn’t have to define the whole season, let’s look to nature and appreciate this time to slow down and take notice.

Embracing mindful photography, reconnecting with nature, and nurturing our relationships can all contribute to a more balanced and fulfilling winter. Let’s pledge to prioritise our wellbeing and find joy in the beauty that surrounds us, even amidst the grey.

Follow us here or social media to find out about our next project funded by Forensic Response when we work with Kyra domestic abuse service and also celebrate nature with a women’s group in York.

Rebecca@mindfulphotography.org.uk