Embracing the darker months

Small ways to feel better as we move through the 'ber months

Hello, I’m Jodie. I write about my life lived a little slower post burnout! You cam Subscribe to support my work & to read more. Or, join our Slower Space community to access all content, meditations, events and the monthly journaling club! Can’t wait to see you there…

We’re officially amidst the shift into the darker, colder months.

My chunky knitwear is back in rotation, the electric blanket is on and I’ve made my first stew of the season! It’s a time of year I love, but, the promise of more darkness and cold can also feel like a lot!

My previous lack of joy for these months was what inspired me to look deeper into seasonal living. I realised, especially being in the UK, that I can’t keep wishing this time away for warmer climes. I wanted to lean in, and embrace each season for what it is.

Making the darker months feel easier - the practical stuff

When I think about autumn and this move into the darker months, the word balance is always what comes to mind.

The balance between leaning into the darkness and using it as a time to retreat and rest, but also making it easier for yourself with modern technology, and things we know will actually improve mood.

Here’s a few things I’ve tried and tested over the years that do actually make a difference…

• Using this wake up alarm clock. I first started using one of these 6 years ago and it’s the biggest relief not to wake up in total darkness scrambling to turn off my disregulating phone alarm. My eyes no longer feel like they’re glued shut, another big plus, and generally I do feel more energised for using it.

• Eating seasonally and trying different recipes. I cook way more this time of year and having that as an anchor in my day and being able to look forward to a warm nourishing evening meal always makes a difference. I made my first stew of the season last night and was reminded of the joy in it - especially the dumplings!

• Taking vitamin D. Me and my husband started taking this vitamin d spray daily last year from October - March, and again we both notice the difference in our energy levels and general mood last winter. We’ve just picked the habit back up again.

• Staying warm! I’m a cold person, and I know this may sound SO obvious but making sure you’re warm enough will help you relax physically. I was actually rubbish at this, but I’ve invested in a better duvet, cashmere bed socks and an electric blanket… All of these help have really helped me lean into the cosiness and feel more settled in the season.

• Still getting outside… Admittedly, is the one I want to work on most this year, because when I do this I notice the benefits instantly. I find it so easy to almost hibernate a little too much, but getting out, even when it’s cold and grey and doesn’t look all that inviting will help to shift something!

Making a commitment to find joy in the darkness

Last year in this post, I wrote a commitment to myself to find joy in the darkness. I wanted to share a slightly altered version of this again because the same is true. For me it requires some effort to feel the same enthusiasm for darkening days, but, when I search for it, the magic and joy for them is still there…

✨ A commitment to myself to lean into rest, and find moments of magic in all of the wonders this season has to offer.

✨ A commitment to still getting outside, to soak up the rare sunny days, to not save my favourite candles or nice knitwear for best.

✨ A commitment to romanticising the process of cooking my favourite hearty meals, to listening to my needs to slow down and sleep more as the days get shorter.

✨ A commitment to be present enough to watch the light disappear throughout autumn and slowly reappear again post Christmas.

✨ A commitment to prioritising my wellbeing and showing up for exercise in a mindful way, to staying connected with friends and loved ones when it’s so easy to fully retreat indoors.

✨ A commitment to noticing and focusing on the best in the seasons…

What parts of autumn and winter do you naturally embrace most?

What’s coming up:

This coming Sunday I’m hosting a Mindful Morning Meditation. It’s a 30 minute session combining some releasing movements, pranayama (breathwork techniques) and meditation. It’s completely beginners friendly and will be hosted via Zoom from 9:30-10am (UK time). If you’re a Slower Space paid sub, there’s a code to join for free in the chat!

Until next time,

Jodie x

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