It is the day after
Thanksgiving for us here in the US. It is a holiday of dubious history given, you know, colonialism, genocide, and revisionist history telling. It is also one of favorite foods, gathering with loved ones, gratitude, and for me a turning point towards inner reflection on the year that has been.
It is a balancing act between the pull of inward musings the longer nights bring and the glitter of blooming holiday glitz.
When well balanced this point in the year holds a special kind of magic. Key words being "well balanced."
Here are some ways I am hoping to create the dynamic kind of balance that allows for honoring, savoring, and reflecting, along with the sparkles, gaiety and celebration of the season. What are your ways?
Shall we?
1.
Rest.
I know it is a familiar drum of mine, but honestly we have all been through a lot. In conversations I have, workand personal, it is clear that most of us have no idea how over capacity we are. Or if we are aware, we fight the cultural narrative that productivity is more important than rest and self-tending. In addition, this time of year has its own unique do-more-push-push-more energy.
Rest looks so many ways, not just naps
and early bedtimes. It is anything that has us feel nourished and rejuvenated. A good book, a walk, getting lost in the nooks of a favorite shop with a cup of tea, all can be good rest.
Will you make space for rest?
2.
Doing less, enjoying more.
Over the years my gift list has shrunk, my Christmas trees have become smaller, my holiday baking has lessened. And you know what? My enjoyment of the this last part of the year has risen.
I have more time to sit with my tea and let the longer nights unfold in the glow of candles and twinkly lights (which I have
all year round, just have more dark to enjoy them in now). I can let my childlike wonder wander since I am not trying to check all the things off a too long list. I can appreciate the beauty and whimsy that comes out only this time of year.
What are some of the things you want to enjoy more this season? Is there something to let go of to have that happen?
3.
Beginning my year end ritual of reflection.
In the quiet of this post Thanksgiving weekend I'll spend some time with the year up to this point. What are the themes, high points, low points and surprises? Not to jump into planing for 2025, that will come in its own time, but to acknowledge this year in its
mucky challenges and unexpected delights.
What kinds of
year end rituals or traditions do you have? When do they begin for you?
4. Bringing out the holiday tea mug(s). A symbol of shifting energy, a reminder to enjoy the moment, a tradition that threads the years together. It is a small thing but a might
one.
Do you have any small symbols of the changing
energy of the year?
May you gather all that is beautiful, may beauty visit in unexpected ways, may you be charmed by the beauty you are.
Until next time, Sandi
Share:
I have received a new box of The Sensuality of Living Oracle Decks. If you find yourself wanting a little more beauty in richness in your life or are doing some Black Friday shopping for others who want the same, hop on over the my Etsy shop. I'll be relaxing with some leftovers and tea over the weekend but will get orders out early in the week.
