The Gifts of Winter

On the longest night of the year, the Winter Solstice is a time for reflection, an invitation to enter the season’s contemplative pause. The days grow colder and the light outside is fleeting. You might miss the long, hot days of summer, autumn’s golden light or the soft colors of spring. What gifts does winter offer?

In our workshop, we will slow down to honor this time of nature’s deep rest and open to receive the wonders of a quiet season. To prepare for our gathering, give this a try:

Make yourself comfortable. Close your eyes or soften your gaze. Turn your attention to your breath, just as it is. As you breathe in, notice the cool winter air. As you breathe out, feel how your body has warmed your breath. Now, without any strain, pause at the end of your exhalation. Linger in the stillness of this pause before your inhalation returns. Breathe in coolness. Breathe out warmth. Pause again. Then return to your breath, just as it is. Open your eyes.

And remember that any time that you find yourself outside on a frosty winter day, you can return to this breathing pattern and receive a very special gift of winter… you can see your breath!