How to Change Directions
Life comes at us at a relentless pace and we may end up off track. Get back on track with these simple steps.
Winter solstice is a time to find stillness and reflection before moving into the changes that lie ahead in the new year. Change is inevitable. I believe pressing pause allows me to approach my new year with an open heart and open mind. Winter Solstice represents the opportunity to go within – a time of journaling and self reflection- so I may recognize patterns and redirect my energy for the new year.
I begin a few weeks before solstice, intentionally reviewing my journals from years past and congratulating myself on how far I’ve come. I'm reminded of the challenges I’ve overcome AND the moments I've embraced joy. Looking back over the past year allows me to recognize if I've given my time and energy into someone or something that is no longer serving me. I may recognize a one sided relationship or a project I'm no longer passionate about. I make a list of what I've let go of in the past year and I'm excited about the new opportunities and experiences coming my way.
We must consciously choose to pursue what nourishes us, while letting go of what depletes us.
If you need to get away to spend time in self reflection, join us for one of our January retreats. There's something about the silence and beauty of nature on the retreat grounds at this time of year. Things are quiet, as our staff stays home for the holidays, and for me personally, it’s a time to reflect on all the lives that have been touched over the last 12 months at Retreat in the Pines. I’m grateful to be able to offer women a place to find stillness and sanctuary where they can get away for a weekend of rejuvenation and self-care.
I frequently come back to the concept of stillness and the value of taking a pause. If you're short on time, do just that, find a moment of peace and stillness, just for you.
Some of my favorite activities at this time of year:
This year, December 21 marks the Winter Solstice, the first day of Winter and the shortest day of the year. The word solstice comes from the Latin words sol (sun) and sistere (to stand still) – roughly translated as the day that the sun stands still.
We can take our cue from the sun, as we move into winter and the solstice approaches, stillness and time for yourself, is the perfect antidote during a time of year that may feel hectic and overwhelming. You deserve it.