Open Meadows

The holidays are over and winter is in its full cycle for rest. It's when plants are dormant in their sleep. When days are shorter so we can rest longer, ideally. But too often we continue to rush about in pursuit of whatever drives us: the dollar, the first in line, the better deal, the top of the heap. Stress accumulates because we forget to let go. Yesterday and tomorrow are not with us. Only this moment is all we really have. Focussing on the past and what we did or did not do does not serve who we are right now. Let that time go. Be present in the now and breathe in the joy of being who you are at this very moment. Let winter’s rest allow you to detach yourself from the worries of what once was or what may be in the future. They are not yours to fuss over. Your own being is now and simply beautiful.

Take a walk on a frosty morning and revel in the breath that exhales from your chest. Bask in the wonders of winter that for some lasts way too long. They are the ones who refuse to live in the now. Find a quiet place to sit and close your eyes and breathe. Slowly inhale and exhale without expectations. Just enjoy the time that you are giving to yourself. It doesn’t have to be any length of time. Whatever suits you, suits you. And if a walk in nature is not available to you, go anywhere where you can be alone in your breathing and with your thoughts. Noise might surround you, but if you can take that moment to put it aside, you can rest in the now of winter.

Before the renewal of spring begins, let your body rest as a part of the natural world. When the days are cloudy and you feel that the sun will never return in its fullness to lift your spirits, be grateful for this quiet time of peaceful slumber on the earth. There are those birds that are out, often seemingly noisier than usual. They seem to be taking advantage of the serenity that abounds while other animals are hibernating or have gone off to warmer climates.

In mindfulness the sun is always shining. The gloomiest of days can be bathed in light when you stop and be present in the power of now. While relaxing and breathing in, imagine the golden light surrounding you and pouring down through your head and all the way down to your feet. If you have time, imagine that light radiating out through your heart when you exhale. This energy will be given back to you and will shine for others to take in.

Each breath is a moment of mindful rejuvenation. You can be present wherever you are and whenever you choose. Let the freshness of winter’s chill be your inspiration for resting and taking in the essence of the earth and being full in your loving intentions. Blessings to all.

Email Shannon Brown at [email protected].