Happy Solstice - Now Take a Nap
Happy Solstice. As the days slowly lengthen, marking the turn towards more light, it's intriguing to note that within the realm of acupuncture theory, we're currently situated smack in the middle of winter.
Confused?
Well, remember the yin-yang symbol? It represents the balance between yin (darkness, femininity, receptivity) and yang (light, masculinity, activity).
So, what does that have to do with winter?
Well, the dark part of the symbol is yin, representing the dark, cold, inward time of year. And we're just moving out of the fattest part of the dark blob (yin). That means we have plenty of time left in darkness.
Consider winter nature's pause button. It's a necessary interval for us to recharge, a period devoted to introspection and restoration. Essentially, it's a time for doing less and sleeping more.
Which can be really hard for many people, so I’ve created a quick guide to resting & recharging, to help you embrace the dark time of year
Unleash your inner writer: Grab a cozy blanket, a steaming mug, and your favorite pen. The quieter energy of the solstice is perfect for journaling. Don’t panic. This doesn’t have to be anything deep. It’s just a place to jot down whatever is spinning in your head - whether it’s your to-do list or your hopes & dreams. Getting it on paper reduces stress, trust me.
Embrace the sunshine, even in small doses: Step outside for just 5-10 minutes during the day's peak sunlight. This helps us reconnect with nature, as well as reduce the chances of succumbing to Seasonal Affective Disorder
Prioritize the power of slumber: Commit to at least 7 hours of quality sleep each night. Remember, winter is a time for hibernation, so give yourself permission to truly rest and recharge.
Eat warm food: I know that many of you are planning to do fasts and “get on track with diet” come January. But now is not the time for raw food, fasts or juice cleanses. It’s extremely depleting to the body, which you want to avoid this time of year.
By embracing the yin time of year we will emerge recharged and ready once the shift to yang returns.
But for now my friends, it’s time to rest.