Ritual, reflection, renewal…
The winter season is a deeply therapeutic time of reflection, inwardness and nourishment. In the winter our bodies crave warmth and sustenance; and our hearts long for connection with our loved ones. With it being the longest night of the year, we are reminded of the fact that even midst of darkness, there is a glimmer of hope knowing that the days grow longer and brighter each day. Nature is in her resting season; and as are we. Quiet, withdrawn, deeply connected to our roots as we prepare for spring. During this time we become more aware of our senses, as the stillness and darkness around us shifts our trajectory from outward to inward.
Energy can be neither created nor destroyed—only transformed.
Water is the element associated with winter, and it exists abundantly both within and around us. Water is in the air, on and within the earth, and composes all living matter. Water is adaptable; it takes shape of its container and changes form with cold and heat. We too are adaptable. Water is the essential medium of our bodies, through which all things pass. The element of water is vast: water can be soothing & nourishing, yet unpredictable and disastrous. In exploring the element of water, we can see how the human body and planet earth are connected: they both consist of 70-80% water.
Calm the tides within you.
Winters power is deep and restorative. This is the time of year when it’s best to conserve our energy and resources. Take special care in the form of nourishment, rest and ritual. The water element is related to our emotions: and when we’re not nourishing our waters, our emotions are out of balance. Rituals for winter can include setting a daily routine that supports your mental health: perhaps journaling each morning or a long bath in the evenings. Nourish your senses by becoming aware of all five of your senses when doing the mundane such as eating, applying moisturizer or brushing your teeth. Give yourself permission to slow down and experience connection to your interior.
The ears are the sense organ of Winter.
Enjoy this playlist to honor the Winter Solstice. Light a candle, situate yourself in a comfortable seat or lying down, and press play. Headphones recommended. :)