Winter's Wisdom- Giving Yourself The Grace & Space To Do Less
Hi friends,
It’s day 6 of this flu, and the cabin fever is growing by the moment. After landing home from our holiday travels, the aches and pains came on quickly, and I’ve been humbled to have to rearrange my plans for what was meant to be a calm, easy start to the new year. And for those who don’t know, my dog River suffered some kind of stroke or neuro episode a few days ago, while staying with my mom in Colorado. My partner and I are working to get her back home to Oregon for treatment. Needless to say, I am trying to embrace this current lesson in surrender, trust, and deep rest, despite my limbic brain wanting to do anything but!
I know I’m not the only one who feels some conflicting energy during the winter season, and certainly not the only one dealing with illness or tragedy this time of year. However, I am doing my best to be open to the wisdom of yin season, the longer nights, the colder weather, and honoring the truth that less is often more when it comes to healing.
As winter unfurls, we find ourselves immersed in the gentle embrace of the yin season. Despite a world that often demands constant hustle and perpetual motion, the ancient wisdom of the winter months calls us to pause, reflect, and surrender to the subtle power of doing less. In the symphony of seasons, winter emerges as a time of quiet introspection, inviting us to align with nature's rhythm and nurture our nervous systems.
In the fast-paced tempo of modern life, the concept of slowing down may seem counterintuitive or even rebellious. However, by delving into the teachings of ancient wisdom, we discover that this intentional repose is not a mere concession to the weather but a profound practice of self-care and healing.
Winter, with its longer nights and shorter days, urges us to turn inward, just as the earth itself retreats beneath its snowy blanket. The yin energy, associated with stillness, receptivity, and contemplation, is at its height during this season. Embracing this natural ebb and flow can be transformative, providing us with an opportunity for introspection and rejuvenation. This is actually not the time of year to embark upon massive changes, as most of us witness in the “New Year's resolution” rush. January is the beginning of winter, and thus, a time for quiet and inner depth, not punishing yourself in the gym or forcing yourself through a juice cleanse.
The wisdom of this time of year, I think, can shed light on our often-backward approach to healing. I see this often with clients doing brain retraining, who experience more dips or ebbs in winter, and respond by doubling down their efforts. I understand this reaction completely! However, less is more, especially with the brain and nervous system. More effort, more pushing, more forcing, can actually create backward movement, just like when we attempt too much during the winter months.
In traditional Chinese medicine, winter is considered the season of the Water element, associated with the kidneys, salt, and bone, symbolizing the depths of our inner selves. It's a time when energy should be conserved and replenished, much like the dormant seeds awaiting the warmth of spring. Listening to this primal wisdom, we can find solace in the quiet moments, acknowledging that rest is not a sign of weakness but a crucial component of our holistic well-being.
In a world that often glorifies productivity and constant activity, the winter season stands as a gentle reminder that less is sometimes more. It grants us the freedom to immerse ourselves in the simple joys of life – cozying up with a book, sipping on a warm cup of tea, or relishing the beauty of a snowfall. In these moments of quietude, we find a sanctuary for healing, allowing our minds and bodies to recharge, and our spirits to flourish.
By surrendering to the unhurried pace of winter, we become attuned to the subtle nuances of our inner world. The stillness invites introspection, paving the way for self-discovery and personal growth. Are you still trying to force a level of zest and fire, typically reserved for the yang seasons of spring and summer, despite it being winter? Where are you pushing too hard, particularly when it comes to your healing? Are you trying to add more or make things more complicated, when your nervous system actually wants less? Remember, like I mentioned in my free guide to brain retraining for chronic pain & illness- my healing really took off when I allowed myself to relax the rules and let go of certain practices, not increase my efforts!
So, as winter graces us with its serene presence, let us honor the primal wisdom that beckons us to slow down, to be still, and to enjoy the beauty of simplicity. With its yin energy, this winter season gifts us the precious opportunity to push back against the messages of the “hustle culture” and “rise and grind.” As the snowflakes fall and the world outside quiets down, let us embrace the message of winter, allowing ourselves the grace and space to do less. Because this is truly where healing and recovery happen.
Here’s to a season of trust, flow, surrender, and quiet. Wishing you and yours a blessed winter season. And thank you for your thoughts and prayers about River.
Grateful for you all,
