From an agricultural point of view, spring is for germination, summer for growing, autumn for harvest and winter for storing. I think winter is also a period for rest and recovery because after the earth produces enormous things including plants and animals, it needs a long holiday.  In our northern hemisphere, the frozen season almost lasts six months. All the farm work comes to a halt. Many plants lie dormant and lots of animals go into hibernation. Man is no exception especially in rural areas close to nature. In the final phase of life time, the old had better take a good rest during the season with cold and long nights.