When I think of winter, I hear the sound ‘brrrrrrr’ and feel a cold shiver within my body. For some of us the winter months can affect our moods, exercise and eating lifestyles (and not in a positive manner either). We may be less tolerating of what’s happening around us, meaning we’re not as flexible in our ability to adapt with changes. The winter season can inadvertently guide us to ‘switch off’ from ourselves and step into ‘auto-pilot’ to push through. Which is the opposite of what winter is about.
Have you ever considered that each season sets a tone for the next three months? Or simply by adjusting ourselves for changes that each season brings, can support us especially through the winter months? Of course every person will have their favourite season (mine being Spring – not long to go either!) and finding their flow is effortless, however how do we find our flow during your off season?
Each season represents a different phase of how we connect with others and ourselves.
Spring:
New beginnings, growth and the start of buzzing energy starting to move throughout the body. We look up at the sun and find our inspiration and motivation. A time for ideas to come through.
Summer:
This is where our greatest energy begins to thrive and taking action has never been easier. Time can move quicker during this period as energy is infectious just like laughter, so it may appear that we do a lot more in one summer’s day than in the opposite season. A time for action and connection.
Autumn:
Colours begin to change and leaves fall off from trees. The pace begins to slow down and for some us, we will reflect on our summer adventures. A great time for detoxing the body. A time for change of pace – slowing down and self-nurturing.
Winter:
Bare trees and cold mornings! Bulky clothing is a must leaving the home. Here in this season is where internal reflection is at its most pivotal time. The season for hibernation (I like to call ‘Me Time’) so we can rest and rejuvenate. A time for deep self-connection, reflection and restoration
As winter can present its challenges, here’s a quick guide to managing your winter blues till spring pops it’s head around the corner.
Stress buster tips:
1. Everything happens at a slower pace – give yourself permission to go with the Winter Flow.
There is nothing better then cruising in winter to restore your energy.
2. Grounding yourself daily so that all your energy comes fully back into your body with awareness.
A quick easy one to do that brings instant warmth into your body: Stamp your feet on the ground like a 2 year old and welcome yourself back home.
3. Wear bright colours that make you smile.
Colours can change our mood especially when we can see them easily.
4. Book a holiday anywhere that gets you excited
There’s nothing better then having a light at the end of the tunnel.
5. Mindfulness Meditation
Making the time just to connect with yourself and check in with all the sensations happening in and around your body helps reduce stress, creating room for more what you want.
6. Light a candle and sit in front of it with your eyes closed and just breathe in and out of the body to wash away the day.
Letting go of the day’s stress is just like washing our clothes, creating a freshness and lightness within our inner world.
