As I write this, I can see a blustery snowstorm from my window. I am not going to lie; it has been a challenging winter, clearing snow more times this month than the whole of last winter.

Let It Snow (But Not Too Much)

When I go out, all suited up, it is up it is up to my waist. It has been relentless, and the snow storms are not finished yet.

There has to be a reason, right! Let’s take off the snowshoes, remove the snow pants and take a stoic look at what snow means for us.

Out of the bosom of the Air,
Out of the cloud-folds of her garments shaken,
Over the woodlands brown and bare,
Over the harvest-fields forsaken,

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Snow, in my rural neck of the woods, means closed roads and digging out so you can get to the door. It is so pure and innocent, yet for daily life, especially in urban spaces, it slows everything down. Let’s discover the importance of snow, especially as it permeates the Canadian landscape for a good chunk of the year.

Lucky me, I get to use the technology from the comfort of my home office to observe the winter version of one of our most precious resources, water.

Technically, snow is an accumulation of frozen water crystals, formed by a certain amount of humidity and temperatures below freezing.

According to the hermetic principle of polarity, everything has poles, different in degree, but the same in nature, and paradoxes can be reconciled. Snow is an excellent example of this; from water to ice crystals, different in degrees but the same in nature.

Do you wonder why we have such a resonance with water? Not only is water a large percentage of our planet, our bodies are also at least sixty per cent water, depending on age and sex. Even though this relationship may seem distant when you are waist deep in the fluffy stuff.

It is always good to accentuate the positive, so you can look at snow as the gift that keeps giving, and acknowledge our kinship with nature.

Ecological and Environmental Benefits

As snow melts it replenishes rivers and lakes and is an important water supply source, especially in the country with the most lakes in the world. Let us not forget, that pretty reflection of sunlight off the glistening snow helps to regulate global temperatures by cooling the Earth’s surface, as well as acting as a natural insulator.

Fun in the Winter

Snow plays a key role in seasonal festivals, particularly in Canada where you can find curious celebrations like the Wiarton Willy festival along with many Ice festivals. Everybody wants to make the best of the snow, and local economies benefit from related winter eco-tourism and recreation activities.

Physical and Mental Health Advantages of Snow

The physical benefits of winter activities have been well documented, from boosting the immune system to reducing stress. Increased daylight can boost serotonin levels, improving your overall sense of well-being.

Additionally, exposure to cold temperatures has been linked to various health benefits, including improved circulation and increased metabolism. Just ask Vim Hof, but you don’t not have to go to such extremes.

When you embrace the cold, you challenge your body, there is a primordial sense of battling the elements, which can give you a sense resilience and strength. I feel it when I walk to my mailbox and manage to remain upright and not get frostbite. Crisp, fresh air, as you take a brisk stroll, is good for your overall mental health.

By understanding these advantages, you can appreciate the value of snow not just as a seasonal phenomenon but as a contributor to your overall health and well-being.

Aesthetic and cultural Value

Snow evokes the creative energy of artists in various fields with its pristine aesthetic, which is like a canvas for nature. The footprints in the snow from various animals remind us that snow provides a unique ecosystem for many species. Hunters, indigenous to colder climates such as the Inuit and Sami, can read the snow in arctic climates as their survival depends on that knowledge.

Kindness of Neighbours

Snow brings out the community spirit, and the kindness of neighbours, who will help you get your car out of the ditch or clear the driveway of the those unable to manage that task.

Final thoughts…

Snow is a symbol of purity and renewal in many cultures. When you look out over the snowy canvas, imagine how you will use your energy in the coming months for renewal and growth as does nature. As above, so below, is a classical meditation to contemplate as you gaze upon the snow.

All things considered, the value of snow is multifaceted, encompassing ecological, economic, cultural, scientific, and physical importance. The tranquility of a snow-covered landscape is stress reducing and also promotes mental well-being.

Spending time in nature, especially in winter, can reduce stress levels and improve focus, fostering a sense of peace and relaxation. So dress warm, and get out there.