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Reflections on the Wheel of the Year:  Yule/Winter Solstice ~ approx. Dec. 20-21

 

Embracing the Stillness

by Ananaia O'Leary


As the days shorten and the nights grow longer, we approach the time of the Winter Solstice (Dec. 21).  The longest night of the Year.  A time of silence & reflection, anticipation & hope.
 
As the power of the sun wanes, nature’s rhythm is slowing down, turning inward, and seeking wisdom in the silence.  In stark contrast, our culture’s rhythm is frenzied scurrying, fighting crowds and shopping malls.  We are out of synch with Nature. Torn between tempos, we wonder why so many feel frayed and frantic in this “festive” season.

Rebel!  Break out!  Be a Revolutionary!  Dare to Slow Down!
Follow the rhythm of the dying sun …  into the stillness within.
Turn inward …

There is Wisdom in the Silence.   Embrace it!

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Every day in December try one of the following ideas
or invent your own pathways to stillness:

bd21484_.gif (668 bytes) When your alarm goes off, hit the snooze button and take a moment to greet your day with intention.  
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Start your day with an affirmation, for example:  “I am centered on the stillness within.”

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During the day, find a window, step outside at lunch or break and look for a touch of Nature’s beauty.  Breath in some fresh air, allow Nature to weave your consciousness into Her rhythm.

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If you’re feeling edgy or tired, take a moment to stop and s-t-r-e-t-c-h … open and expand your body, shake out any static or negativity, let some fresh vitality flow in. 

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If you’re feeling pulled in all directions, take a moment to stop and become aware of your energetic center (perhaps in your belly, your heart, or your navel area) … feel your center … breath into your center … expand from your center.

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When arriving home from work in the darkness, take time as you get out of your car to look up at the night sky.  Breath deeply as you sky-gaze, breathing in the crisp night air, and releasing out any frenzied energies from your day.  Breathe deeply at least 3 or four times.

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Before going to bed, turn out all the lights and light a candle.  Place your awareness on the candle flame, while allowing your breath to refresh and relax you.  (Don’t fall asleep with the candle burning.)

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Play some quiet music, drumming or nature sounds as you get into bed.  Allow the rhythm of the music to caress and rock you, lulling you into the deep realms of sleep and stillness.

 

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