The heart of Winter

Here in Melbourne we’re right in the heart of winter. It’s cold, it’s wet but haven’t we been blessed with some beautiful sunny days! I hope you're enjoying those slices of sunshine and warmth as much as I am!
 
Winter is a time of retreat and stillness. We’re in the most Yin (quiet, cold) phase of the year and the energy of the season supports inward looking and reflective activities. It’s the perfect time to take stock and reflect on your inner and outer worlds. Think of where you were 3, 6 and 12 months ago. How have things changed? How have you changed?
 
Winter also represents the time of the ‘shadow’; the unconscious and most hidden parts of ourselves. Do you fear and avoid these darkest parts of yourself? Or do you have the courage to look at and work with your shadow aspects?
 
In Chinese medicine, Winter is associated with the Water element, the colour black and the Kidney and Bladder meridians.

• The spirit of Water is Zhi - the spirit of aligned will, courage and innate wisdom.  
• Water is the first and last element on the wheel of 5 elements (Water, Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal) so represents endings and beginnings.
• Imbalanced Water is characterised by excessive pushing, lack of drive/motivation/willpower, excessive fear (‘frozen’ by fear) or anxiety, cowardly behaviour and addictions.
• Typical Water imbalances I work with in clinic includes disconnection from inner wisdom/intuition, pushing self to the point of exhaustion, fear of stopping or slowing down, fear of moving forward/inability to take the first step, anxiety and panic attacks.  
  

photo: "Winter beach" ~ @nadineamber_

Embracing the energy of Winter

• Give yourself permission to slow down and DO less. Notice if you have a fear response to this (many people have a belief that slowing down stops growth) and explore what this means to you.
• Listen to your body. You’ll naturally be more tired at this time of year and will want to sleep more. What does your body want to eat? Most likely it will be warming soups and stews.
• Adjust your movement activities. Choose gentle exercise (walking, stretching) rather than long gym sessions.
• ‘Switch off’ where you can. Turn your devices off and enjoy some you time.
• Tune in and reflect. This promotes integration of past events and allows space for inspiration going forward. This isn’t the time to start new projects (save that for Spring) but you may start bubbling some exciting new ideas!
• Stay warm. Keep the lower back warm and covered to protect Kidney Zhi.

How would things be different if you could slow down (without guilt!) and listen to your body more? What if you were consistently in tune with your intuition? How does fear show up in your life? Do you struggle with motivation and willpower?
 
Embrace the heart of winter with a Winter session. Book your appointment online or call 0423 493 255.

Nadine x