Why Do I Feel Like This?

Or, if you think you don’t have time to read this, you really need to read this.

The word “winnow” describes the process used after harvesting grain. A current of forced air or wind is used to blow the chaff (not useful) from the wheat (useful). Imagine farmers long ago using blankets to toss gathered stalks up into the air to allow gentle breezes to blow away the chaff, the heavier grain remaining. In modern day we still use this term to describe blowing away, scattering, and also:

to examine carefully in order to separate the various elements, to sift and separate, to eliminate the poor or useless parts, to sort out or extract the good or useful.

If you winnow a group of things or people, you reduce its size by separating the ones that are useful or relevant from the ones that are not.

Hmm ….

Take a look outside. Early morning frost seeps into lingering tomato vines and not yet ripe fruit weighs heavy on drooping branches. Petals fall one by one from the last of the roses and autumn fades to winter as cold winds blow and daylight fades more and more to dark. The question of usefulness has great relevance during this season.

When humans orchestrate lives in accord with the energy of the natural world Fall is the time for “Spring Cleaning”. Closets sorted – winnowed – wardrobes shifting to heavier clothes. Preparation for darker, colder months may spur a desire to sort through possessions and consider importance. In ancient times survival depended on these actions and in the animal world it may still.

And it is in Spring that resolutions are made! No wonder so many “New Year Resolutions” aren’t maintained. It’s absolutely not the right time. So many resolutions require unprecedented bursts of energy. Ugh. In the darkest days of the year when the energy surrounding this part of the world is mostly dormant it’s like moving through molasses!

Autumn/ Winter energy – the natural life force surrounding us – sinks and rests. Much less goes on above ground as activity goes deeply underground. Seeds scattered by animals after harvest sink under the earth. Energy feels heavier and much of the activity of nature happens below the surface. As leaves fall, annual plants fade and die, perennials go dormant, animals prepare for winter storing food and finding shelter – some migrating or hibernating. It’s quieter “out there” in the natural world.

Although humans are more and more disconnected from nature (the statistics are alarming!) we ARE part of the natural world and we remain needing — even longing for — that connection. Most folks notice feeling good after a day at the coast, a walk in the woods, watching a sunset, or time in a garden. During the Fall/ Winter season while energy is sinking our emotions may feel heavier and we may experience a desire to slow down. Yet the demands of the holiday season may have us speeding up instead. When we listen to the messages of our body and allow ourselves the space to respond we often feel better. Autumn and winter are YIN seasons – passive, restful, and shadowy.

So while enjoying the hustle and bustle of the season, try taking a bit of extra time (even moments) to rest, be alone – if possible go outside – in order to maintain a stronger sense of balance and well being. Breathe deeply and mindfully, especially when you feel tense, hurried or stressed. Remember, with mindful breath and intention we can slow and calm our inner world even amidst hustle and bustle. Take a look at your “to do” lists and consider the benefits of winnowing …

As the new year approaches prepare for the winter months, generally from January to March, and allow more time for quiet … reflection … curiosity … gentle pondering about what is working and what is not – about life, and desires you have for yourself …

… sleep more … (really!!)

The YIN seasons request for us is less action and more gentle contemplation.  Here’s a relevant quote: The power of the Bear Totem is the power of introspection. The answers to all our questions lie within us. Each of us has the capacity to quiet the mind, enter the silence and know…”

It is in the SPRING that WE PLANT THE SEEDS OF CHANGE – and we give them light and nourish their growth.  The Seasonal Seminars launch in January 2020 with a series of emails to prompt comfort and contemplation. Topics like, Yin & Yang, Forest Bathing, Clean Eating, Hygge and Sleep will be explored. The first gathering will be in late March when we will be prepared to plant a seed of change in our own lives.

You can sign up for the Seasonal Seminar Series in January 2020. Until then, may your holiday season be merry, bright and peaceful.

Ponder this: “Set peace of mind as your highest goal and organize your life around it.” – Brian Tracy