For those of us in the northern hemisphere, tomorrow is the winter solstice, the darkest day of the year.
Winter solstice is a magical time. The darkness asks us to slow down and reconnect to the light within. This time of year holds such a beautiful and soulful energy. It gives us time to cultivate warmth through gathering with others and taking care of ourselves.
Unfortunately, the broader consumer culture tells us this time of year requires increased speed and reaching outward to find warmth and contentment. As the holidays approach, you may be feeling increased anxiety and pressure related to having and being enough. While it’s not always possible to avoid situations that trigger reactivity and instability in the heart/mind, we can nurture internal states of ease and presence. Hence, we have access to them when needed.
As outer activity increases around the holidays, let’s use our resources to stay grounded, in our bodies, and heart-centred. I’ve included a short meditation below to help you find some stillness and settle the buzz of the everyday.
The practice of “calm abiding” or samatha can be a helpful practice to return to if you’re feeling ungrounded or in need of centring. Return to this practice whenever you need a quick check-in.
To find more tips for the holiday season, check out my holiday survival guide.
You can also access my loving kindness meditation from a few years ago here.
Wishing you a wonderful and restful season.
