Answer:
In this modern age, we maintain constant levels of activity and production by smoothing out or eliminating the effect of seasons. In doing this, we create various disturbances in our bodies and minds and souls — but we assume our unnatural manipulation of our schedules and life-styles to be natural just because it’s what we’re born into. As a consequence, those who have natural rhythms to their energy and alertness levels will think there is something wrong with them when they feel lethargic and a little depressed during winter. In most cases, the lower energy and alertness levels are part of our natural rhythms. Our ancestors, from whom we receive our traits and tendencies, had shorter workdays in winter and spent much time in low-key activities, such as repairing tools or clothing, and also resting or telling tales or teaching and playing with children. Farmers who follow traditional ways, such as the farmer-poet Wendell Berry will follow this sort of a schedule, lessening their physical activities in winter, perhaps to pick up a pen to write poetry or a Bible to refresh their soul.
