Embracing Winter for Mind, Body & Soul
Welcome to Winter! June marks the first month in the sacred season of Winter and the Winter Solstice (the original marker of the start of winter in pre-calendar times). This seasonal shift is a symbol to align ourselves and honour the sacred seasons.
WINTER SOLSTICE: 21 JUNE 2024
The Winter Solstice marks the shortest day of the year; the darkest night. Each day after Solstice brings more light with days gradually getting longer. Symbolically this is a reminder that dark times do not last forever and the light will always return.
Winter is also the season of retreating; hibernating like a bear and going within. It’s a time of deep reflection. The days are cold and short; the nights are dark and long. Nature is sleeping, resting and conserving energy for the lighter days ahead and so we follow suit if we are seeking harmony with the seasons.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine point of view there are two key organs that symbolise Winter; Kidneys and Bladder. The Kidneys are known as our energy batteries and store our Jing (or our life force). The Bladder is closely connected to our soul and balances our emotions. Because both are governed by the yin water element; the key here is go with the flow and experience the mystery of life more.
8 TIPS TO EMBRACE WINTER
1. Go to bed earlier; just like the farmers do in Winter conserving energy for the Spring/Summer.
2. Keep the feet and head warm; no bare feet on cold surfaces and don’t lose heat from the head. (Scarves and beanies/ hats are essential!)
3. Warming the heart. Cocoon as a family with nourishing, warming meals together.
4. Winter’s Go-To herbs are ginger, clove, ginseng, cinnamon and sesame.
5. Recharge your battery; don’t spread yourself thin with lots of activities. Allow time for slowing down and just be-ing.
6. Move your body in nature; it’s tempting to avoid exercise and hibernate, but moving the body alleviates stiff joints and encourages connection with nature.
7. Epsom salt baths/ foot baths help warm the body, slow down the mind and sets up quality, peaceful sleeps.
8. Chase the Sun; when the sun does come out, sit and enjoy it as it brings joyful feelings, replenishes Vitamin D and charges our batteries.
Ritual: Celebrate the Winter Solstice with your own ceremony. Welcome the start of the climb towards longer days with a candlelight dinner with your loved ones sharing what you’re grateful for.