When we look at nature in winter, we see that everything slows down. The animals are resting, the trees are shedding their leaves, while beautiful processes of new life are in the making underground. We can’t see these changes until spring surprises us with its wonders, so in the meantime we sit, wait and rest.
But sitting, waiting and resting is difficult in winter, leaving many of us feeling the effects of the ‘winter blues’. And while we always turn inward for answers to things that plague us, we often forget that emotions are also symptoms.
We are creatures of nature and as such we feel the effects of its changes. But while the birds, bears and trees have figured out how to adapt to less sunlight and colder temperatures, humans still soldier on. And all this jostling makes us feel tired, anxious and sometimes even sad.
But the winter blues are nothing to fear; it’s just the body’s way of communicating. The body gives you hints so you can step in and make some positive changes.
How can you bring your body back into balance?
1. Excercise! Qigong seems simple from the outside, but its effects are far-reaching. Start holding The dragon stands between heaven and earth a few minutes every day. As your energy increases, you can work for up to 20-30 minutes. You will notice a difference!
2. Stay warm. Dress warmly and feed yourself body-warming soups, stews and seafood. Take hot baths and nourish your soul.
3. Protect your ears! The Kidney is dominant at this time of year and its senses are the ears. To support your kidneys from within, wear a hat that covers your ears. Once inside, rub your ears with your palms until they are red and warm to the touch.
4. Acknowledge your fears. The winter blues are often accompanied by fear, anxiety and worry. Start noticing your feelings and how you respond to them. These reactions are often based on past experiences, or on the fear of ‘what if’. Once you become aware of the ways you are contributing to your own fears, you can take a step to change and let go of them.
5. Sunbathe. Have you ever paid attention to your dog or cat during the winter? They find one ray of sunshine to sit in, and as the sun moves, they move with it. Copy this innate behavior. The sun has incredible healing properties. Just a few minutes can do wonders for the soul.
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Mind, body, spirit, nature