Here are 10 simple ideas to embrace stillness, inner focus and introspection during winter:
Mindful meditation: Set aside time each day to sit quietly and meditate. Focus on your breath or a mantra to help focus your thoughts and bring a sense of peace and presence. Winter is the time to travel indoors. Try this meditation from Insight Timer that invites your mind to reflect the vision of a clear mountain lake. On this meditative journey, you'll begin by tuning into how your mind, when troubled, mirrors the rippling surface of a lake: A Meditation for Winter: A Season to Go Inside
Journalist: Keep a journal to reflect on your thoughts and experiences. Writing can be a therapeutic way to process feelings and gain clarity about your inner self. Start here: Nature Journalism Benefits: Plus 20 FREE journal pages
Reading and learning: Winter is an ideal season to enrich your mind and spirit through reading and learning. It's the perfect time to unwind with deep books or brush up on your knowledge by attending a class. Whether it's diving into literature or non-fiction on herbalism or foraging, each read can open up new perspectives.
For those interested in herbal medicine, I highly recommend it Plant Academy. They offer a variety of classes on herbalism at different levels and price points. I have personally benefited from their courses and can attest to their quality and depth.
Additionally, for book lovers, check out my recommended reads at “The 22 Best Herbal Medicine Books for Self-Study” AND “Best Books on Northeast Food: My Favorite List.” These are great resources for anyone who wants to explore these topics further.
Embrace the stillness of winter as a chance to learn and grow. Whether through a book or a course, this season is a wonderful opportunity for personal growth and discovery.
Nature walks: Even in the cold, a leisurely walk in nature can be incredibly restorative. Observe the stillness of the landscape, the bare trees and the crisp winter air. You can even adopt a sitting place in winter. Learn more here: Sit Spot: A sacred place to observe the rhythms of nature
Practicing Gratitude: Take time each day to reflect on what you are grateful for. Gratitude can change your mindset and bring a sense of contentment and peace.
Yoga and Gentle Movement: Engage in yoga or gentle stretching exercises that focus on mindfulness and breathing. This can help maintain physical health while also calming the mind.
Creation of herbal remedies: Embrace the ancient practice of herbal medicine making. This not only connects you to ancestral wisdom, but also engages you in mindful and grounding activity. Find some herbal remedies to try here: Herbalism & Herbs
Digital Detox: Reduce screen time and disconnect from digital devices for periods of time. This can help reduce stress and increase your connection to the immediate world around you.
10. Planning and dreaming: Use this quieter time to plan for the coming year. Dreaming and planning can be a form of introspection, helping you align your goals and actions with your true self. This is when I plan my spring garden and dream of all the warm weather fun I will have soon.
