I was never one to get really jazzed about winter post-childhood. The first sign of fall began the internal struggle, oscillating between awe over the beauty of fall and the dread of the frigid winter months and things getting way too quiet.
It wasn’t until I made myself take a running course in my junior year of college that I was ever intentionally active outdoors in the winter. I’m not going to lie, it was AWFUL at times. Most of the time, however, I really appreciated the opportunity to get outside and breathe the fresh air and marvel at the stillness of the season. Then I started to dabble in meditation and mindfulness practices. I began to reflect inward.
Flexing that muscle of reflecting inward has allowed me to see winter from a fresh perspective. I see winter as the perfect opportunity to slow down and to reflect on where I am at in my own life and to shift things into a new, brighter light. I take a step back from the rushed-ness and daily grind to see the bigger picture.
There is plenty of symbolism throughout fall and into winter – plants wilting and dying, colors fading from the landscape, giving thanks, silence falling. Every aspect of fall and winter serves as a reminder that each moment is precious and that all of life begins and ends on a cycle. Also, that there are times to be busy, productive and strong and times to rest, pause and be gentle. The stillness and quiet of winter allow reflection on these topics. Am I living my life fully? Am I allowing a balance between productivity and rest and even play? Are the seasons of my life flowing or am I resisting time and aging? Do I allow myself to slow down and/or speed up when I need/want to and when it serves me and my community? Am I satisfied with how I am using my energy? Ya know, super light and breezy topics. Welcome to my brain!
It all starts with the Thanksgiving holiday season for me. Without dismissing the history that comes with this particular holiday, I take the time to reflect on what I’m grateful for and start to bring my attention to the great many people, experiences and lessons that have shaped me to become who I am today. Solcana has played a pivotal role in shaping me into the person I am now and I’m excited to be growing alongside each of you.
I would like to invite each of you to become familiar with how you’re approaching this winter season! In the Wellness Community, we provide the space for you to flex that mindful and inward reflecting muscle through mobility and meditation. Please join us this winter as we settle in and get cozy with our bodies, minds and hearts.
Don’t forget about all the Black Friday Deals just around the corner with your Solcana Fam! A perfect opportunity to share joyful health with those you love (including yourself).