It seems like everything sleeps in winter, but it’s really a time of renewal and reflection.
~ Elizabeth Camden
We talked to a friend this week who was eager to leave for Florida, where he could enjoy warmth and sunshine all winter.
Right now, that doesn’t appeal to me. I look forward to the change in seasons - to new beginnings.
We spring into summer with growth and abundance and fall into winter to pause, reflect, and renew.
The wisdom of winter
What fire could ever equal the sunshine of a winter’s day?
~ Henry David Thoreau
Looking outdoors as it lightly snows, I feel like I’m in a snow globe.
Winter officially started yesterday in the Northern Hemisphere, as marked by the winter solstice - the shortest day of the year.
With the holiday season upon us and more darkness, one can easily feel gloomy and overwhelmed.
But, we've reached bottom. From here on, the days will continue to become longer and brighter until the first day of summer.
Although the summer sun is healing and uplifting, for me, there is nothing quite as magnificent as sunshine on a winter's day.
I love how a blanket of freshly fallen snow reflects the light even when it's cloudy.
Walking through the forest, when the trees have a dusting of glittery snow elevates the mood like nothing else can. Everything looks so clean and bright. It’s awe-inspiring.
Step outside to flourish
If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.
~ Anne Bradstreet
At this time of year, spending lots of time indoors increases the likelihood of colds and flus.
Breathing in heat-dried recycled air irritates nasal passages and makes us vulnerable to infection.
Admittedly, my favourite part of the winter has become the opportunity to safely do cold plunges, which not only improve immune function but increase resilience and grit. No need to be so extreme, however. It took me a while to get here.
This winter, do cuddle up with a book by the fire. Pause, reflect and renew. And, do spend time outdoors.
Commit to embracing the discomfort of the cold to help prevent infection and increase resilience and grit. Making it a habit to step outside shortly after sunrise is a great way to start.
Wishing you all lots of health and happiness through the holiday season.
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