Finding Your Sparkle During This Season of Light
Feeling a bit more tired, and depleted than usual for this time of year? You are not alone! I am hearing many people say “I’m just so tired these last few months”. It’s no surprise given the unrelenting stress and challenges of the past few years as we are in new territory in every aspect of our lives. Your body may need some help keeping up. It’s always best to seek medical care to uncover the deeper reasons for fatigue which may include running laboratory tests. In the meantime, here are some simple steps to help regain some of your sparkle:
First, drink more water: Dehydration from mask-wearing protocols is particularly evident. Aim for the formula 1/2 your body weight (pounds to ounces equivalent). For most people that is about 1.5 - 2 L per day.
Embrace longer sleep: 9 hours in the winter is not unusual! Let your body lead you on what feels restorative. If you have disrupted sleep be sure to address the underlying cause - melatonin or magnesium may provide some support.
Unplug from all media: This means both news and social. Most of us know the blue light exposure affects our sleep, and increases our stress and disrupts our hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis balance.
Meditate to release worry, fear, uncertainty: We are each a product of our thoughts and emotions which can go in either the direction of heavier and more negative, or lighter and more joyful. There are many great guided meditations and now is a particularly potent time of year to focus on releasing old negative energy patterns, habits, beliefs, and limitations as we prepare for the ‘return of the light’ signified by the Winter Solstice on December 21, 2021. Focus on setting positive intentions and lightening the body’s energy ‘bubble’ is one of the quickest ways to feel better and shine brighter. A walk in the forest or by the ocean can help achieve energy cleansing with the added benefit of negative ions that support the healing process.
Reconnect with loved ones, restore your social fabric, and embrace humour and laughter in large doses: We have been fed a steady diet of fear and dread for the past few years which have lead to division, separation and isolation which only leads to diminished mental and physical health. The easiest way to melt the fear is through laughter, humour and connection. Opening our hearts and mending divisions within families or between friends is the surest way to experience renewed energy and vitality. Laughter truly is the best medicine!
The cycles of nature remind us that there are times of darkness and times of light through the ebb and flow of the seasons of the year. Let's take inspiration in knowing that brighter days are ahead. Wishing you and your loved ones rest, peace, ease and joy during this holiday season!