The Myth of Persephone: Embracing Life’s Seasons with Gratitude and Wellness

As the holiday season draws near, the colder weather and the fading light invite us to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the blessings in our lives. For many of us, this time of year is a reminder that life, much like the seasons, has its own cycles—times of abundance, times of struggle, and times of quiet rest. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I’ve been thinking a lot about the lessons we can draw from the natural world, from the way the seasons change and shape our experiences. One ancient myth that offers wisdom about balance, change, and personal growth is the story of Persephone, the Greek goddess of the harvest.

The Myth of Persephone: A Story of Balance and Renewal

In Greek mythology, Persephone is the daughter of Demeter, the goddess of agriculture, and Zeus, the king of the gods. She was a young, vibrant goddess associated with spring and the renewal of life. But her life took a dramatic turn when Hades, the god of the underworld, abducted her to be his queen.

Demeter, devastated by her daughter’s disappearance, caused the earth to wither and die, resulting in the first winter. This period of cold, dark desolation lasted until Persephone was allowed to return to the world above, bringing life back to the earth. However, Persephone had eaten six pomegranate seeds while in the underworld, binding her to return to Hades for six months of every year.

Thus, the seasons were born: Persephone's time with her mother on earth signified the spring and summer, full of life and growth, while her time in the underworld with Hades brought the fall and winter, a period of rest and dormancy.

The Cycle of Life: Embracing Both the Light and Dark Seasons

When I reflect on Persephone’s story, I see a powerful lesson about the importance of embracing all seasons of life—both the vibrant times of growth and the quieter, more introspective periods of rest. Just as Persephone must leave her mother to spend time in the underworld, we too go through cycles where we must face the darker, quieter parts of ourselves in order to fully appreciate the brighter seasons.

In our busy lives, especially as we age, it's easy to get caught up in the "spring and summer" mindset—the drive for achievement, success, and constant productivity. We may find ourselves chasing after the next goal, the next milestone, without pausing to appreciate the value of rest, reflection, and renewal. However, much like the earth must rest in the winter to be fertile again in the spring, we too need to embrace periods of pause and introspection in order to grow.

Gratitude: Finding Balance in Life’s Cycles

Just as the earth gives, it must also rest.

As we approach the Thanksgiving season, it’s a reminder to appreciate not only the abundance in our lives but also the times when life slows down. These "winter" moments—whether it's a physical period of rest, emotional downtime, or times of personal struggle—are necessary for renewal. Without rest, there is no growth, no new beginnings.

Persephone's story teaches us that there is beauty in every season of life, and we don’t need to push ourselves to remain in a constant state of productivity or action. Instead, we can embrace the quieter moments with the same gratitude we feel for our achievements.

This Thanksgiving, take a moment to reflect not just on what you have accomplished, but also on the quiet moments of rest or personal growth you’ve experienced this year. The periods when you felt "stuck" or when things seemed to slow down were necessary for your transformation.

The Importance of Self-Care: Restoring Your Energy

It’s okay to rest—it's part of your growth.

In the myth, Persephone’s time in the underworld is essential for her growth, as it deepens her understanding of both life and death, light and darkness. Similarly, we must recognize that self-care is not just about "doing" but about being. It’s about acknowledging when we need to retreat, to restore, and to take a break.

As we age, we sometimes forget that rest is just as important as work. In fact, true wellness requires balance—just as the seasons balance out periods of light and dark. It’s easy to feel guilty when we take time for ourselves, but there is no shame in resting. Without rest, we cannot be fully present for the people we love, nor can we nurture our own growth.

Take time during the Thanksgiving season to reflect on your own need for rest and renewal. Are there areas of your life where you’ve been pushing too hard? Maybe it’s time to give yourself permission to slow down and recharge.

Embracing Change: The Beauty of Transitions

Life’s transitions are not to be feared but embraced.

One of the most powerful aspects of Persephone’s myth is the inevitability of change. She is not forced into the underworld; instead, she accepts it as part of her role in the world’s balance. Similarly, we all face transitions in life, whether it’s an aging body, changing relationships, or shifts in career or lifestyle. These changes, while sometimes challenging, are essential for our growth.

The Thanksgiving season is a natural time to reflect on how far we’ve come and where we’re headed. Perhaps this year you’re navigating a new chapter in your life—maybe you’re caring for aging parents, contemplating retirement, or embracing a new role within your family. These transitions, like Persephone’s descent into the underworld, are part of the natural flow of life. They bring with them important lessons and opportunities for growth.

Embrace the transitions in your life as opportunities for growth. Change doesn’t have to be something to fear—it’s a chance to reflect, learn, and become more attuned to what you truly need in this season of life.

Giving Back: The Gifts of Sharing and Gratitude

Just as Persephone returns to share her gifts, we too can give back during the Thanksgiving season.

In the myth, Persephone’s return to the earth brings abundance and life. We, too, have the ability to give back and share our gifts with others, especially during times of abundance. Thanksgiving is a time to reflect not only on what we’ve received but also on what we can offer to others—whether it’s our time, our wisdom, or our resources. Just as Persephone’s return symbolizes the return of abundance, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others through simple acts of kindness and generosity.

• Embracing Life’s Seasons with Grace

As we move through life, we, too, experience the cycles of Persephone—times of activity and abundance, followed by periods of rest, introspection, and renewal. Thanksgiving is a reminder that we don’t need to chase after constant growth and productivity; we also need to honor the quiet moments, the times of reflection, and the seasons of rest. By embracing both the light and dark seasons of our lives with gratitude, we can create a balanced, fulfilling life—one that is grounded in wellness, self-care, and a deep appreciation for the cycles of change.

Like the earth’s changing seasons, life’s cycles—both the highs and lows—are essential for growth and renewal. By embracing every phase with gratitude, we honor our own journey and the wisdom that comes with it.

In deep Gratitude,

Valerie