Surrendering to Darkness, Opening to Light
All animals (humans included), not just Mother Earth, go through seasonal cycles. This is the week of the winter solstice. It is the darkest time of the year and energetically the lowest time of the year. We, as inhabitants of this planet, are meant to slow down and rest more. It is what gives us the reset for the light that is coming.
With so much of our modern technology distracting us we may not consider the fact that we are deeply connected to this cycle. We are animals and in this time of year darkness is part of our inner and outer landscape; a physical, mental and emotional dip. Plants die back, water stops flowing and freezes and other animals even hibernate, because it is such a slow time of year.
In our culture we have lots of holidays right now, which are good for helping our spirits, but they can become a distraction too. What I mean by this is that, even though the holidays can provide an excuse to connect or reconnect to our community and loved ones, it can stifle the chance we have right now to rest and reflect; to reconnect to ourselves and be in alignment with the cycles of the planet.
This year may be somewhat of an exception, though. With Covid-19 causing humanity to socially distance and isolate there is an unprecedented opportunity to go deeper within; to re-Source ourselves.
Our yoga practice is a good practice for this work. That might mean practicing therapeutic and restorative yoga or meditating more. I would recommend a 1st Chakra meditation. It is one of the easiest places to feel the low vibrations of the solstice, because it is the most dense, heavy, stabilizing energy center in our being. You could also spend time during these long nights reading the classic yoga text or something from your favorite spiritual teacher. Or, pick up a notebook as start journalling. What appeals to you?
After the solstice passes the days will be lengthening – the light returning. For the new year, I invite you to consider what you are intending to create/experience/be. Usually our intentions are for positive change, so - as you clear your mind and look inwards to where you want to go in the future - I invite you to place your hands in Gyan Mudra. This Mudra, or hand gesture, has your index finger and thumb touching. The thumb symbolizes our highest self, pure consciousness and wisdom. Our index finger is symbolic of who we are right now. In joining them, we align with our best self as we honor who we are right now.
The only time that exists is right now, yet most of us - most of the time - are either judging how we did in the past or planning for the future. This is especially true at the end of the year. All this ends up robbing us of the gift of the present moment. This can cause built up stress – something none of us need more of this year!
Something that has helped me stay present is focusing on the act of letting go. As you go through your day today (and onwards) keep coming back to feeling your breath, the sensations in the body and noticing your thoughts and your feelings. This very moment will never come again so let's cultivate mindfulness of the present moment.
Happy Solstice!