Shorter days with less intense sun, longer dark cold nights invite us to turn inward, rest and revision.
Our bodies are adapted to change with the seasons, so it is natural to seek cozy warm rest this time of year. When you obey Mother Nature, you will stay healthier than if you push for self-imposed activity and loss of sleep to accomplish everything for the holiday season.
This is winter medicine.
Sleep
Go ahead and hibernate, perhaps going to bed earlier than usual and sleeping later. This gives your body the opportunity to utilize melatonin, the hormone that is for more than sleep. It is a powerful antioxidant that helps repair cells to rejuvenate the body.
It also helps maintain vitamin d levels, since you cannot make it from the sun now because the rays are too low in the sky.
Cold
Brrr . . . have you noticed how cold it gets at night? I have seen frost in the morning lately.
Being out in the cold with the right jacket and hat will stimulate your metabolism to invigorate you with internal heat from brown fat and more energy by making new powerhouses in the cells.
Bundle up for warmth
Your favorite sweater, a snuggly blanket, or spooning your sweetheart gives extra warmth. This comes from infrared energy that will boost the function of those cellular powerhouses for energy.
As well, it helps structure the liquid crystal water within cells so that they all function better.
The comfort of the soft snuggle helps regulate your nervous system.
Another source of this healing infrared energy is fire.
In addition, whether basking in the warmth from a fireplace or lighting the room with candles, the nervous system calms so it can rest.
Turn inward
When you are resting, take the time to appreciate all you are grateful for in your life. Mother Nature totally supports you in this process.
From there, go inward and revision who you want to be and how you want to be in the world. Reflect on what you want for your life, for your health, for your relationships.
With a clear vision you can start the new year, not with resolutions (because they don’t work) but with a picture of what you can be grateful for every day.
Take your medicine
It’s time to embrace rest. Perhaps sleep longer.
It’s time to be out in the cold.
It’s time to bundle up in soft cozy socks, sweaters, and blankets.
It’s time to sit in front of a fire and watch the flames and imagine your best self.
This is our winter medicine. And now you know why.
