Happy Winter Solstice!

Today marks the first official day of winter and the longest night of the year.

If you have been in contact with me for any length of time, you know the importance that I place on the seasonal rhythms of the year.

I firmly believe that one of the most powerful ways to help us maintain a feeling of balance in life is to tap into the rhythms & focuses of each season.

Winter is a time for hibernation.
It's a time of gestation.
A time to go within.

Nature teaches us that this is the time of year for rest.
This period of rest is necessary for balance, inspiration, & new growth later in the season.

Deciduous trees are bare and resting before they grow new leaves in spring.

Animals are hibernating.

Even the seeds in the ground are resting quietly before having the energy to sprout in spring.

Don't forget that you are a part of the natural world and you are meant to have this period of rest too.

It's time to be quieter & inward in this season of darkness.

Giving yourself this time can produce inspiration & energy for spring, which is now just a few months away.

More time indoors being cozy.
More time with books & movies.
More sleep.
More rest.
Less busyness.

And here's something to celebrate in your cozy winter cave - The longest night of the year has now passed us and the light is beginning to return!

With each passing day until the summer solstice, the nights will grow shorter & the days longer.

Be sure to take your rest time now, so that as spring arrives you will be ready to embrace the longer days with more activity & inspiration once again.

I know that this season can be busy for us in the fast-paced world we live in. You might be reading this thinking about all of your holiday plans & preparations, thinking "What the hell, Shelly? How do I rest right now?"

What helps me is letting go of the perfection of everything.
Letting go of feeling like I need to be everywhere & do everything.
Moving at a slower pace.
Take a nap here & there.
Light some candles & set my environment to be cozy & conducive to being in this mode of rest.

Do what you can, where you can.

If you have a busy holiday season, be sure to mark some rest days on your calendar when the holidays are over.
Let go of committing to additional things for a bit.
Consider booking a relaxing getaway, or staycation at home.

I realize that you can't just be a hibernating bear & curl up in your cave for the whole winter with a busy life, but with some focus, you CAN create more space for rest, and thus more balance in the seasons of your life.

Wishing you a beautiful winter solstice & joyful holidays,

Shelly