February invites us to slow down. After the fresh intentions of January, this month feels softer, quieter. Nature moves at its own pace, and so are we gently reminded to do the same. Snow-covered streets, shorter days, and colder air ask us to turn inward, to find warmth in simple rituals, nearby places, and honest food. February isn’t about doing more, but about noticing more. Small moments, small choices, and the quiet beginnings that slowly grow beneath the surface.
When the city slows down
February arrives quietly. The city is covered in snow, sounds feel softened, and everything moves just a little slower. Walking becomes a ritual: crisp air, icy pavements, and coming home with cold cheeks but a clear mind. It also asks for care… cleaning your dog’s paws after every walk, small mindful acts that naturally slow you down.
Because of the snowfall, leaving the city wasn’t an option. Roads were closed, cycling impossible. Where we usually push forward, we were gently forced to pause. To live more slowly. To look closer to home.
Staying close to home
On Saturdays, I usually visit the big market at Blaak, but this time it felt too far, too slippery, too unsafe. Instead, it became a small walk around the block. And there, at a spot I normally pass without noticing, a small fruit and vegetable stall caught my attention. Grapefruits, apples and stewing pears.
What started as a quick stop turned into a warm conversation. The people at the stall recognised me, telling me they often see me walking by with my dog. That they knew I was from the neighbourhood. They also shared how they make their stewing pears themselves, completely unprocessed, simply simmered in a pan on their kitchen counter. No rush, no additives. And you could taste it. Soft, comforting, and exactly what February calls for.
A return to real food
Unprocessed food is becoming more present for a reason. People are making more conscious choices in everyday life. Just last month, the city welcomed its first supermarket offering only unprocessed foods. Real food is making its return – honest, nourishing, and close to nature.
Some fear that unprocessed eating might lack flavour, but true taste often lives in simplicity. Fresh herbs bring everything to life. Basil, rosemary, thyme, beautiful flavour enhancers that are easy to grow yourself, even from seed in a mini greenhouse kit on your windowsill.
Finding warmth from within
With the cold outside, keeping your body warm is essential. Herbal teas with warming spices help, but let’s be honest a good glass of red wine with a piece of cheese works wonders too. Balance matters. The 80/20 approach feels especially gentle in February. Depriving yourself of everything isn’t joyful; mindful enjoyment is.
And how lovely is it to serve homemade bread during an evening drink, topped with home-grown, preserved tomatoes? Not quite the season yet, but a sweet reminder to plant the idea now for spring.
Small beginnings, green intentions
Plants like tomatoes and peppers are surprisingly easy to care for. Even in the city, even with limited space. A sunny windowsill is often all you need. Being a Botanian doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with a few plants and the green fingers will grow naturally along the way.
February reminds us that we don’t always need to go further to find more. Sometimes, closer is exactly where it begins. 🌱
