As the seasons shift and it’s getting colder (some days) here in Northern California, I’m finding my sweaters and long pants again, and feeling the comfort of the soft fabrics, cushy clothing, and especially my bed. For someone who loves the warmth and energy of Spring and Summer, it’s a little surprising, and yet I can see how this transition time outside mirrors my internal state.
There’s still a lot of activities, so many interesting things to do and still I can feel my body wanting to slow a little, to allow myself the time to harvest, to digest, to integrate all that’s happened this past year and let go of what isn’t working.
As I slow and look within, and get honest with myself - I can see which relationships and which situations aren’t serving me (these are things that leave me feeling depleted rather than energized or filled up). For me that looks like letting go of some friendships where we’ve grown apart and dialing back my use of screen time.
It also looks like going outside first thing in the morning to let my eyes adjust - side note: early morning sunlight has so many benefits - it helps your brain and body by producing cortisol which wakes you up (we need some, just not constant levels) and also serotonin which improves your mood. It even helps you sleep better at night! And who doesn’t need better sleep?
So I’m taking a cue from the trees (and plants) that let those dried up leaves fall away and turning my energy back into what nurtures me.
What about you - what are you ready to let go of? What do you want to bring in?
And most importantly - What nurtures you?