There is a kind of clarity I find in winter that doesn’t exist at any other time. Especially in the quiet days early in the new year. I step out into a cold that absorbs into my skin and blows coolly through me. The spare tree branches reveal the blue sky.
I know for many people winter is a real challenge. They struggle with the lack of light and the chilly sometimes unpredictable climate. But there is much embrace: The quiet, the slower pace the stripped bare architecture of the landscape can all be gifts.
A walk in winter energizes me for more than a sweltering summer one.
At home, my senses welcome warm kitchen smells and blankets like hugs.
These days I need to pay attention to my skin. I’m in my forties now and the dryness is real.
So I moisturize and take long baths to soften my often neglected skin.
We are putting away our holiday decor, but like to keep some fair lights out for their magical glow.
If I’ve learned anything from Paganism it is to embrace every season and remember that I am lucky to have shelter, heat and food. Gratitude for necessities is a long held practice and will see us through until spring.
To relish rather than survive this season, join me in my #embracewinter series that will continue with ideas until we reach Ostara in March.
Leave a Reply