The night comes sooner and sooner these days, and my body feels the pull of the tide, beckoning me to turn inward. I find it interesting that to the naked eye, we don't think that anything grows in the winter.

We see the bare trees, the desolate dirt where grass once ran rampant...and we think that everything has gone away. Yet...I would argue that some of the MOST growth happens during the winter. The energy - while maybe invisible to a passer-by - is still there, gently being stirred like a potion waiting to bubble in a cauldron. Slowly and steadily cultivating the roots for everything that we will enjoy when the sun glows brightly past 7pm. 

Why do humans think we are any different? Capitalism has forced this winter time to become a purchasing season...which in-turn means a productivity season. This is truly the opposite of what our bodies naturally need at this stop in the wheel of the year. Without the time to turn inward, hush the voices around us and listen - we will not be ready for the spring. The seeds will not have been tended, the roots not held in cool, quiet Earth. 

This year, our cave dwelling may be hard to cultivate. There is a raging power struggle happening right outside our door between an old leader and a new one. The ever present knock of sickness, confusion, & disruption of the traditions we perhaps relied on in the past all make a still and restful retreat quite challenging. I feel that intensely right now, all the while also feeling extremely grateful that I am one of the lucky ones with a roof over my head, food on my table and family that is taking all of this very seriously. 

This week - I want to extend an invitation to rest. I welcome you to join me in letting go of the expectations of this time - the ones others place on you, and the ones you place on yourself. I am trying to shift my viewpoint on some things like : 

- "I am so sad to not be close to family"
becomes
"I am so proud that we are honoring our boundaries to keep everyone healthy so we can celebrate for years to come."

- " I just don't have the energy to pick perfect gifts for everyone this year"
becomes
"I will extend the same grace to myself, as I am to others this year and that is a beautiful gift"

- "I can't keep up with work as well right now, and I feel like I am failing and falling behind"
becomes
"I am proud of myself for prioritizing my mental health. That is my #1 job right now."

These shifts are not easy, but our words and thoughts are powerful spells, and I think with some rearranging, they will lead to the most beautiful spring flowers.

Reprinted with permission of EFM