At this time of year, many of us feel the change in seasons affecting our well-being in various ways. Gray skies make us feel lethargic, windy days may cause tempers to flare and family gatherings can share as many germs as they share love. But there are simple things you can do to take charge of your Energy and get grounded, even as things around you change this holiday season.
If you haven’t already done so, start stocking your pantry with foods that are healthy and grounding. In the Indian science of health called Ayurveda, it is commonly known that foods which are warm and heavy help ground your Energy. These include many Thanksgiving favorites like yams, cooked green beans and whole wheat rolls warm from the oven. Also consider cooking with ghee this winter–a lactose-free butter derivative that warms the body and tastes great for sautéing, baking or even slathered on those warm rolls. Foods with moderate salt and healthy fat are also grounding, like home-baked french fries or organic sweet corn and butter. Note: processed foods, frozen foods, carbonated beverages, dry and crunchy snacks and meat products are all considered to be upsetting to grounding Energy–and your digestion. Steer clear or at least minimize your intake of these during seasonal changes or busy times like holidays.
Another great way to get grounded is to use aromatherapy to your advantage. Warm, earthy smells are always a good bet. Whether you like the smell of cedar, pine, patchouli or sage these natural fragrances draw your Energy to center in an instant. Also good are cinnamon, vanilla, lavender and amber. You can find aromatherapy oils at most health food stores, along with tools for their use. Oils can be applied to the skin like perfume (when properly diluted–check the package), added to a shower or bath, spritzed on linens or burned in an oil diffuser. Welcoming aroma into your life more fully allows you to enjoy the winter season in a cozy, grounding way.
Practically speaking, winter naturally means less sunlight. You can supplement your intake of the sun’s rays by sitting near a window on sunny days, bundling up for a sunny winter walk or using an SAD light. SAD (or Seasonal Affective Disorder) affects millions of people in the areas of the country experiencing a majority of cloudy, overcast days each year. The result is a feeling of lethargy, depression or even more serious mental health complications. An SAD lights allow you to take in the important vitamin D from the sun in the comfort of your own home. People who have struggled with SAD swear by them; just be sure you do some research online for the best price and buy one with a minimum of 10,000 lux. Also remember: SAD can be a serious problem. Consult a professional if depression worsens or does not go away.
Finally, you can use your baubles to ground your Energy! If you have jewelry in darker hues, you can bet they will likely help you stay calm in the chaotic and snowy holiday season. Consider wearing your black onyx, jet or obsidian pieces at this time to help stay centered as you celebrate. These stones can also help release the old as you seek to ring in the new year. If the winter blues are your problem, yellow citrine invites uplifting, sunny Energy into your space and fortifies the centering solar plexus chakra. Some people find the holidays to actually be the most difficult time of year; it that is you, try purple amethyst to release grief and loneliness or turquoise to help voice personal boundaries in chaotic family situations.
Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hannukah, Pancha Ganapati or the Solstice, the holidays are a busy time of year. Be prepared as you approach this joyful season and you may just find yourself starting 2012 as the best new year yet!
Grace and Clarity 