April 1. Earth 🜃: The Body and the Mundane
We rest for a reason.
In the winter months, and on rainy days, it is natural to regenerate, to rest, and to contemplate what we have learned. I like to burrow in and embrace the darker days. There are so many ways to allow the warm brews to steep. Light a candle. Cook comfort food. Wear woolen socks and soft snuggly hats. To leave the house, but to only stretch as far as the mailbox or curb, then return, stomp off the wet and meditate, to read or do a puzzle, to sit and visit quietly with a friend. If I am truly bored, I will throw an intimate dinner party with just a few of my favorite people. Together, we share stories. I will insist they participate and contribute to the meal, as I refuse to work too hard at quieter times. Some days are for stillness and quiet reflection. Stormy weather can bring the gift of restoration.
Related Expertise
Dr. Sandra Dalton-Smith, physician and author of Sacred Rest on why essential rest takes courage: “What I have found, in our culture particularly, is that people who are high achievers have this mindset that rest is not necessary because they think they can get more done if they don’t rest. But in truth, the most productive people—people who produce at the highest mental, physical, creative, emotional level of capacity—rest. Those people cannot do that unless they are getting adequate rest. Otherwise, you are creating and producing out of emptiness.”
Inspired Action
Move slowly and trust nature’s process. This is a wonderful time to surrender what has been and to soon prepare for what will be. Take time to recognize the five senses at play in this season of recuperation: Touch, Sounds, Sights, Smells, and Tastes. Take time to name and describe each one as you experience them. This helps us to be present. Don’t worry, you are still alive. You are still living. Like the bear in her den, you are gestating for a rebirth to come. Embrace the stillness, and notice the slumbering breath of the bear-spirit within you.
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