Reflection: Winter is Inward Season

I recently read winter is “inward” season, which makes a lot of sense to me. In the winter, the leaves are gone from the trees, and the vital sap is drawn into the core of the earth. All living things begin a process of drawing inward and conserving resources.

As someone who really loves warmth and sunlight, the winter is challenging for me. That whole “seasonal depression” thing rings true as I miss my feet in the grass, long walks outside, and the sound of nature surrounding me.

That said — I love the idea that the colder/darker days are an opportunity to pull our intention inside our bodies, minds, and hearts to explore what dwells within.

I’m a big believer in the general idea that lightness comes only through periods of darkness; there is an awakening, so to speak. Winter is a time for deep inner work, so that when the warmth of spring comes, we are able to manifest the healing energy of winter.

A few of my favorite Inward practices for Winter:

• Journaling

  long-form, short-form, sensation-based — whatever works.

• Sitting in silence

  mindful breathing; thinking less and feeling the physical body more.

• Eating warm, soothing foods

  soups, roasted root vegetables, a warm rice dish.

• Taking a bath

  with magnesium flakes, a lovely oil, CBD bomb, or lavender bubbles

• Get cozy

  cashmere socks, thick fleece lounge, blankets, a fire, quilts.

• Early wind-downs

  dimmed lighting , candles, a warm tea or digestive beverage

• Practice loving

  yourself, and also, the ones around you.