It’s here! To say I woke up this morning to horrific winds, copious amounts of snow, and frigid temperatures is an understatement - winter has arrived with authority!
Was it expected? Absofuckinglutely! I mean, I live in the prairies; brutal weather is a given! Cold temperatures, brisk winds, treacherous roads, constant shovelling, and lots of snow are inevitable! But still…
I’m one of the lucky ones who work from home! For this, I’m so grateful! I truly appreciate that I don’t have to leave the house on days like this. I can only imagine how treacherous the roads were this morning. I wish you safe travels and send Archangel Michael to protect all of those that had to brave the winter roads!
Winter is the darkest and coldest of months, but with it comes the holiday season! The holiday season is typically a time spent with family - if the roads allow it, ha! We share laughter, eat good food, and feel the warmth our loved ones provide. It allows us the opportunity to cozy up and hibernate in front of the fireplace with a glass of wine and a good book. These colder months are also the perfect time for some self-reflection.
We could use this winter as a period of recovery. With everything going on in the world these last couple of years, we could all use a little rest, respite, and self-care.
What is it that you desire? What’s missing from your life? What kind of changes to your life would you like to make both professionally and personally? Or maybe you’re perfectly happy with how things are, and you would like to explore your creativity. Let’s use this time to go inside and discover our heart’s desires. I like to think of winter as the preparation stage. If you have something that you’ve always dreamed of doing, use the cold days when you’re stuck at home to brainstorm ideas, make plans, and implement strategies. Let your imaginations soar!
I love this quote by Gary Zukhav:
“We cannot stop the winter or the summer from coming. We cannot stop the spring or the fall or make them other than they are. They are gifts from the universe that we cannot refuse. But we can choose what we will contribute to life when each arrives.”
I know that I (and lots of other people) feel the best when contributing to the world in some way. Whether that’s shovelling a neighbor’s driveway, volunteering to read at a senior's complex, donating food or clothes to shelters, all of these acts of kindness spike our serotonin levels which helps to decrease stress. This will allow us to feel more joy in our lives. Exploring ways to contribute to society (no matter how big or small) may make the winter months go by quicker, and dare I say make them more enjoyable?
Let's use this time for self-reflection, bettering ourselves, contributing to society, or planning for the future; it all helps to take our mind off the cold weather and survive the winter blues.
So, what will you contribute to life when each season arrives?
Until next time…stay warm!