We made it! Happy Winter Solstice! This day is the longest day of this winter’s darkness and from here forward we move toward greater light! Happy dance! This season in the Northern Hemisphere forces us to get in alignment with nature and it can be long, biting, and brutal for our spirits.
Here are some things I’ve been learning to embrace the peace of the season and I’d love to hear your ideas.
First, this year I’m learning to use my voice differently. Many hear telling the truth about our feelings and act as if we are anti or complaining. If anyone knows me I’m a stubborn optimist (required for all good therapists), massive advocate for healing and respecting our planet, and I’m a very grateful woman. It annoys me when I tell the truth about my experience and someone dismisses, shames, or attempts to TEACH gratitude.
I’m learning to tell the truth about how I feel and to ask others to not dismiss my feelings or observations such as when others say, “Oh but we need the water.” To this I say, “Of course we need the water! I love water! But you didn’t ask about climate conditions, you asked how I’m feeling. And Im feeling cold! Damn cold! Mars cold! As a one time resident of beautiful St. George, I’m sharing with you my authentic feeling that I’m COLD and LONGING for light.
I’m sure this annoys me so much because of all the ways I witness our voices get dismissed. So on this I take a stand. When I tell you I am cold and longing for light just hear me and perhaps come sit and have a cup of tea with me and let’s talk about how awesome puffy coats are.
I’m also learning to still take my walks with Lefty and once home I try to remember to drop my shoulders. My shoulders tend to want to lean in and conquer the wind even when I’m inside.
I’m learning to clean out closets and build puzzles and have friends over for Dutch Oven meals that remind me of summer camping.
Mostly I’m learning to be a part of the season. To hibernate. If I long for rest and to be comfy, I take more naps and wrap up in my favorite hoodies, blankets, and wool socks. The best part of the long winter is noticing when and where the light finds it’s way into my heart and home. Lefty is very talented at this as he can be found curled up in a ball wherever the sun shines through. Whenever I spot him doing this I try to drop all tasks and say, “Will you scootch over Buddy? I think I’d like to join you.”
What do you do to find joy, meaning, and motion through this winter season?
