Nourish the Body, Feed the Soul

With the arrival of colder temperatures, the major theme that keeps emerging on and off my yoga mat, has been nourishment. I am simply craving continual warmth, comfort, and nurturing. More sleep. Warmer, wholesome, homemade foods. Deeper, more inward-focused yoga practices. Even more alone time, just to reflect on all that's happened so far this year. It has been interesting to note that as these needs arise, there has also been this persistent reluctance on my part to really honour them.

Why is it difficult to give ourselves what we know that we need? Why does the thought of "slowing down" sometimes provoke anxiety or irritation?

In many parts of the world, winter is the season of "hibernation". Each year, the natural world--trees, plants, flowers, animals--move away from bountiful summer expressions and draw their energies inwards. More of our time is spent in darkness; more of our day is spent inside.

This hibernation, this darkness is not a bad thing. Seeds germinate under the darkness of the soil, babies grow and develop in the darkness of the mother's womb. It is in sleep that we rejuvenate, literally rebuilding our bodies every night. This "darkness" holds vast amounts of potentiality, of creative power, of revelation, hints of things to be soon realized.

So, my aim is to enjoy the darkness this year! To make friends with my lower energy levels and my need for more sleep. To really honour the desire for self-reflection and continual comfort and support.

I invite you this season to take the time to listen to your body and heart. Ask yourself, what do I need? What would truly support me during this darker time of year? Then, be open enough to hear the answers. Do something everyday that nourishes your body, do something that truly feeds your soul!