Nurture Yourself

Take heart! We are now moving out of the darkness and into the light. The long, cold days of winter darkness will gradually get shorter now that the solstice has passed and we will see just a wee bit more light as each day lengthens as we move towards springtime. Yes, it is a hopeful time and a time to really think about replenishing yourself.

Many of us have struggled with power outages and frozen pipes and it isn’t even January yet….BUT there will be a little more light each day now and that will help us to move through whatever further challenges the winter brings. Some of you live in warmer climates others in frigid ones as do I. No matter where you are, however, it is a good time to think about the ending of this year and the start of the next. It is a time to reevaluate the choices you have been making and to make plans to nurture yourself into the best physical and emotional wellness and balance possible as you journey forward.

It is tempting at this time of year to hibernate and feed ourselves. We are likely to be less active and to park ourselves on the couch more often with a mug of hot chocolate and a fistful of cookies. The winter can be prime time for emotional overeating and so it is helpful to focus on the return of light and the movement towards the warmth of springtime.

Spend quiet time contemplating ways to transform old, unhealthy behaviors into positive, life giving ones. Light a candle and reaffirm your intention to treat yourself with love and respect. This is the task as you approach the new year and gain about two minutes of light each day. It is a time to appreciate yourself and to nurture yoursef to the very best of your ability.

Be well and stay warm,
Dr. Denise