Winter is upon us!

Winter is the most ‘Yin’ phase of the year, a time of stillness and introspection. The energy of nature has turned inward; it’s cold and dark outside meaning that the natural pace is slow and steady. How do you cope with this period of cold and stillness? Do you resist it, get grumpy, and use your will to maintain your usual fast pace and ‘push on’ through? Or do you embrace it, bunkering down for rest and inner work?
 
For many people, Winter is hardest season to embrace. As a society we have a love of doing, striving and ‘pushing on’ – very non-Winter qualities! Winter is the time for inner work and conserving and storing energy for the year ahead. Just as a seed has a period where nothing appears to be happening, the same is so in Winter. There is work going on, but it’s under the surface. It’s internal. It’s quiet. Proper conservation of energy during Winter is essential, and will help your inner seed burst forth in spring.
 
If you struggle with Winter, here are a few handy tips to make it a little smoother:

• Rug up and stay warm – this sounds obvious but it’s worth remembering that Australian buildings aren’t well designed for the cold and many people don’t dress appropriately.
• Make friends with ginger and cinnamon – these warming spices will help stoke your inner fire (for warmth and digestion).
• Avoid raw food, salads and cold food and drinks – these quell your inner fire, making it more difficult to stay warm and digest food.
• Sleep more – you’ll naturally want more sleep in Winter.
• Make the space for introspection – meditate or be in quiet reflection where you can.
• Book in for a Winter wellness ‘tune-up’ – my Winter wellness sessions can help you adapt to the season and ensure you fill and maintain your inner reserves. 

The shortest day of the year, the Winter solstice, is happening on Tue 21 June. In the Celtic tradition, Winter solstice marks the rebirth of the sun and the return of our own inner light. Traditionally it is celebrated by bonfire and drinking spiced (mulled) wine or mead with those closest to you.
 
In Chinese medicine, Winter is associated with the Water element, the Kidney and Bladder channels and the adrenal glands. The energy of Water supports us to:

• Rest and rejuvenate.
• Fill your reserves – abundant inner reserves are the source of true strength, willpower and courage.
• Use resources (e.g. energy, time, finances) wisely – that is, not hoarding or squandering them.
• Balance the emotions of fear and fearlessness – some fear is appropriate and essential to stay safe; but excessive fear ‘freezes’ your ability to move beyond your comfort zone.

Clinic update
In late March I bid a fond farewell to my clinic at Clay, in Carlton North. I moved out with the help of a dear friend, up and down the rickety staircase we went! The transition to practicing fully at my Thornbury clinic was smooth and I’m pleased to say it’s got the tick of approval from clients who previously saw me at Clay. If it’s been a while since your last session, come by and meet my Thornbury space.
 
Need some help embracing the stillness of this season or restoring your inner reserves? Book your appointment online or call 0423 493 255. 

I look forward to seeing you soon!

Nadine x