Snow, Nostalgia and Belonging

❄️ For the past few days, it’s been snowing in Amsterdam. I know it will be short lived and it's been a bit disruptive. 

Snow always makes me feel nostalgic. I grew up with long, cold winters where fresh snow made things look beautiful, lifted moods, and kids and adults wanted to be outside playing. These brief snowy days in Amsterdam tie me to earlier versions of myself and remind me how much I love winter.

From a therapeutic perspective, nostalgia is not a step backward but a meaningful signal, especially for those living away from home. For people who have crossed borders, memory often carries the body back to moments of safety and belonging. This remembering can feel bittersweet - warmth edged with grief - but it’s not a rejection of the present. It’s an integration.

When you feel nostalgic, you’re not trying to go backward - you’re bringing past joy into the present. Sometimes it comforts; sometimes it aches. Both mean the memory mattered. Nostalgia is the emotional bridge between who you were and who you are now.

❄️ When have you noticed nostalgia showing up in your life? What does it feel like to you? I'd love to hear from you, either in the comments below, or send me a dm.

 - - - 

I work with internationals and globally mobile individuals providing counseling, supporting themes of belonging, identity, and emotional integration while living abroad.  You are not alone in this. If you would like to talk more,  I welcome you to connect or reach out for a free 20 minute chat. I am here to support you.

Snow can bring up feelings of nostalgia. Nostalgia can be a meaningful signal for expats and internationals living abroad.