Winter is the Season of Rest
 

Prepare for Spring with a Restful Winter

     By now the buzz of the holidays is fading away and we are bundled up against the cold and windy winter.  It's the perfect time to catch up on some rest and relaxation, taking quiet walks through the winter landscape, spending the long dark evenings curled up in front of the fire with a good book or putting together a jigsaw puzzle.  Asian healing theory teaches us that good health and balance come from adapting to each season appropriately.  The goal is to cultivate the energy of the current season, to take advantage of the season's natural strength, and by doing so be well prepared for the new energy of the next season.

     To have a spring that is abundant and full of productivity and growth, it is important to incorporate deep rest in the winter.  Often, people find that they are unusually tired and fatigued during the winter.  During winter the energy of the earth is lower in contrast to spring when energy is bursting, and summer when the energy is at its peak.  All life forms evolved on the earth, from the earth, and it follows that the seasonal changes in the energetics of the earth are also imprinted in us.  The season of winter is telling us to rest and nourish ourselves.  If you cultivate the quiet energy of the winter season now you will be ready to be out and about with tons of energy in the spring, enjoying the longer days and warmer weather! 

We encourage you to use this "wholistic earth view", based on thousands of years of observation, as an excuse to sleep more and engage in replenishing activities with friends and family.

Wishing you a safe and restful winter,

Brenda and the entire Teal Center Staff
 

Here are some tips to help you relax and enjoy the winter:

• Practice deep belly breathing for a minimum of five minutes a day.  Breathe in for a count of five, hold for a count of three, and breathe out for a count of five.
• Since the sun sets earlier take advantage of the longer nights by going to sleep a bit earlier than usual.
• Go out for a winter walk and as you enjoy the scenery around you, reflect on what you would like to see yourself doing the the spring.
• Wear layers and keep your head and neck warm.  
   
• Eat warm and nourishing foods, like soups and stews.
• Ginger is warming and good for digestion.  Use it to spice up your soups and make a tea with slices of fresh ginger root.
• Add mushrooms to soups, stews, rice and egg dishes for rich, warming flavor. They are not only delicious, they are great for the immune system too.