Embracing What Is: Winter Edition
The other day I was talking with someone about the cold weather, and I realized I no longer mind winter as much. I’ve come to embrace nature’s cycles, and realize that time is not linear, life is not linear, everything comes around again, and it’s all temporary. Yoga and Ayurveda teaches us to live more in harmony with nature, so we better embrace the glory of each season.
The cold and darkness of winter lends encourages more rest, more quiet, more ease as we slow down and turn inward. To balance the dark we can bring in soul-soothing light from candles, or twinkle lights strung around the room. I personally leave my holiday candles in the window, and beautiful lanterns in most of my spaces to add a warm glow during these dark times of the year. In fact, all these extra lights (on timers) help me to notice when we are gaining light again, and I either have to adjust the timers or put away the lanterns.
The qualities of winter also allows for profound meditation sessions. When the world around you asks you to turn in early and you listen, you may awaken to the light that resides within you. Our yoga practice gives us a chance to notice the light that resides within our own heart and guides us to our best Self.
If you struggle in the winter, here are my five best winter-loving tips. I hope one helps you embrace what is here now.
1-Add some light in the form of candles (real flame, or LED) or twinkle lights to the rooms you are in the most.
2-Get outside everyday no matter what the weather. Enjoy the crisp, cold air (or tolerate it enough that you can enjoy your warm home upon return!)
3-Meditate more, or at all if you don’t currently practice. Winter is naturally quieter, so it’s a great time to start.
4-Drink afternoon tea. Make it a warming, rejuvenating ritual.
5-Sleep more! Go to bed early (no later than 10pm) and see what happens. Circadian Science has found the more hours you sleep before midnight, the better.
I hope you have a wonderful, magical month! And remember if you are interested in connecting with other like-hearted souls, be sure to join my new membership, SoulShine. Each week your SoulShine membership includes two livestreamed yoga classes, one meditation, and a connection call. You also gain instant access to my online library of classes and courses including the popular, Everyday Yoga for Mature Yogis. And the best part is YOU get to decide your monthly payment. Memberships start as low as $35, and all members receive all benefits regardless of what you’ve chosen to pay.