Warming Winter Tradition

Where I live it is cold these days. Not just cold, but “get frostnip on your nose going to check the mail” kind of cold. It’s the kind of cold that does not just affect your physical body, but it begins to sink into the bones and soul.

Being the kind of person that needs time outside everyday I can feel myself becoming more agitated as I am cooped up inside. Like my fuze is shortening. So I began to meditate on the question “What do I need?”

The answer came loud and clear to me. Warmth.

I instantly woke to the idea of warmth in all senses, not just the sunshine cascading down on my face. So I followed the thought and asked myself “What brings me warmth?”

And I was humbled from the response that came from within.

• Seeing someone I love smile

• Baking

• A deep conversation with a beloved

• A brisk yoga practice

• Chanting

• Meditation

• Having a fire

• A bath or shower with essential oils

• A hug that lasts for 9 seconds

• A productive meeting

• Getting positive feedback from a student

I could go on and on for some time with this list but I think you get the idea. There is the temperature around you, but warmth is also a mood and a soul experience. And yes I think this is relevant information to a cold snap in the middle of winter, but I think can be for anytime we are struggling to find the warmth in our lives.

This idea can be turned into an exercise. Even if you are not in the depth of frigid winter you can take the time now to sit down now and write down what brings you warmth. Doing this kind of exercise will ground you into gratitude, and will also just be handy when you are feeling down. Often times when we are restless or depressed it’s hard to think of the positive things.

So get a pen and paper, light a candle, and sitting up nice and straight take three deep mindful breaths. Then ask yourself the question “What brings me warmth” or “What brings me joy” as the two are often related, and just listen to your own inner wisdom. Then take the time to journal about this or make a list and keep it handy so that when times are tough you have this information handy.

If this is something you struggle with or want to explore deeper I am here for you. Reach out today to find your own Mindful Tradition.