The Winter Solstice signals that the year is almost over to acknowledge our loved ones and prepare for the long rest ahead. All of the hard work is over, and you can now snuggle under your covers and dream about the future. Before we can begin our hibernation, we have one last dance with the Earth Element, which is about nurturing, loving and social gatherings. The Winter Solstice is Earth energy and requires that we balance our lives with self-care and attention to our own needs. The transition from Fall to Winter is signaled by the completion of long cherished celebrations and reverence for the Divine. In Ancient Chinese Medicine, Winter is associated with the Water Element. Water that runs deep, it’s fluid and represents the flow of life. This energy is introspective, quiet, calm, and reflective, like the archetype of the Philosopher. It resonates with the cold, still nights that will allow you to replenish your spirit. The Winter Season is associated with the Kidney and Bladder Meridians. The Winter/Water Element: Strength, Courage, Wisdom, Stillness, and Conservation Balanced: Courageous, Determined, Strong willed, Imbalance: Fearful, Indecisive, and hearing problems like tinnitus Keeping your Meridians balanced for the Winter Season: Kidney- keep grounded. Use a stainless-steel spoon on the bottom of your feet to aid in grounding. This helps connect feet better to the Earth’s energy. Bladder- stay hydrated! The bladder helps move toxins out of the body. Be sure to eat nourishing foods to help recharge your batteries. Tips for the Winter Season and Water Element: · Get plenty of rest; the nights are longer for a reason. Go to bed earlier so that you can get extra rest. It is really important for your Kidney energy. · Eat well. Try to incorporate root veggies into your diet that are dark in color and taste salty. Try hot or at least warm foods like soup and stews. · Try not to overextend yourself-the Winter season is about recharging your battery. · Wear a scarf and keep the back of your neck covered so that the disruptive winds can’t enter into your body and create mischief. · Pull out your journal and write; get reacquainted with your thoughts and feelings. · Don’t forget to laugh and find joy in your life. Listen to music that is moving, watch a funny movie or start a project that stirs your passion. I hope everyone has a wonderful Holiday Season and a Happy New Year. Namaste, Lizz --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lizz-naughton/message