Sorciere1 you raise some interesting points.
I know that many of us struggle with low mood, depression and SAD at this time of year -it can be tough.
I cope much better than I used to, and like you Sorciere1 I have grown to appreciate the darker months.
That has been a gradual process over the years.
I know this topic has come up several times on this thread in the past.
Many years ago I had a partner who visited Norway several times a year and he often remarked on the lifestyle changes that people had, and how much they vary depending on the month.
In the summer months with huge amounts of sunlight businesses would stay open for a long working day. Banks and shops would open for 14 hours a day, people seemed to survive on 5 or 6 hours of sleep.
In the winter time the reverse seemed to be the case.
People would sleep for 12 hours a day, businesses open for only 4 or 5 hours.
I remember thinking what a functional way to cope with the seasons, almost like a semi- hibernation, people would slow, rest, keep themselves cosy and warm.
In our society we are expected to carry on as normal, and not only that we feel obliged to make christmas happen. All the expectation, the gift and food shopping, house cleaning, running ourselves ragged in the process.
All that activity is at odds with what our inner self actually needs.
When we find our mood dropping, our appetite for activity lessening then we feel we are to blame.
But in fact a lot of those feelings are natural, we move into introspection and withdrawal, and label these things as depression.
I am not for a second minimising depressive illness- I know that it can be very debilitating and have a profound impact.
But leaning into these feelings, exploring the shadow, giving ourselves permission to feel the way we do and know it is Ok, maybe even "normal" allows us to feel self compassion.
I know the concept of Hygge has become popular in the UK, and is something I welcome and is lovely to apply to self care during the dark months.
Keeping warm, soft blankets, hot drinks can make us feel safe, low lights and candles, the winter months is when I feel drawn to journal more, deity work, divination, tarot reading.
Our ancestors would huddle around a fire, with folk tales and poetry, and we can plug into that feeling if we allow ourselves to slow down.
I keep expectations low, if you celebrate Christmas, Solstice or Yule, we need not strive to make a perfect Martha Stewart production.
A few simple things can add that magic sparkle without the work and pressure.
Be easy with yourself.