How the seasons affect our lives on a spiritual level
Often when we think about the seasons changing, we focus on how they will alter our environment. But what if I told you that the seasonal shifts actually play a huge part in our mental wellbeing?
In many ways, humans are tied to nature, we share the elements, and continue to live side by side in harmony. So as the seasons change - so do we. In this blog post, I am going to give you an overview as to what to expect when the seasons change + how you can utilise the seasons to lead a mindful life.
Let’s start with autumn
Autumn is the time to let go. You may experience a heightened sense of introspect in this season. As the leaves fall - so should your past beliefs that hold you back. Autumn is a time for shadow work, reflection, and realisation. We can mimic this transitional time by letting go of what no longer serves us. As autumn leads to winter, we should embrace the slower pace of life and be grateful for the warmth in the air whilst it lasts. Let this be your season of gratitude and self awareness. As autumn is harvest season in a lot of countries, maybe you will also reap rewards of your efforts from seasons past. All in all, it is a time to change and grow, with grace and gratitude.
winter time…
The most misunderstood season, the season that people can’t wait for to be over. And although winter brings colder days and less sunlight - it is a crucial time to rest and recover. Most animals in the wild go into some form of hibernation as winter comes around. Whether it’s the bears who go fully hibernate mode, or the squirrels who take the time to store more food, virtually all other species understand that with the cold comes hard times, and therefore they prioritise rest and safety. Us humans should do the same, that’s not me saying to go into hibernation, but use this time to nurture your inner world. Spend time alone, take joy in the cozy solitude that winter brings, (there is plenty of time in summer to be sociable). Nurture your body with warmer foods, your body naturally needs more fuel during the winter months as it uses more energy to keep you warm. So ditch the salads, opt for soups. Don’t be afraid of carbs, your body needs them now more than ever! Sleep is crucial during this season, if we are honouring rest then we need to make a good night’s sleep a non-negotiable. All in all, winter is a time you can experience deep states of reflection and perhaps loneliness and heaviness. But to make the most of this time, embrace the indoors, both in the physical sense and in the mental sense. Nurture and protect your sanctity at this time.
The rebirth of spring
Spring is a beautiful time for new life and new beginnings. As the baby animals are born and the flowers bloom, humans can experience a new lease of life. Maybe you feel excited at the new possibilities as the days become longer and the sun shines brighter. Spring is a time to be creative and expressive, maybe now is the season to put your motivation into action and start that project you have been thinking about. As nature rebirths, so do you. Starting new habits, shedding old layers to showcase the new you. You know by now that spring is the time for spring cleaning, take it as a time to detox to allow the newfound energy to flow effortlessly into your life. To connect with the beautiful energy of spring, make sure to spend lots of time outdoors and reconnect with the sun and the sound of the birds.
And finally - summer time!
Most peoples favourite season, and for good reason. Summer is when the sun is the most expressive and so are we. It is time to live life to the fullest, be sociable, take risks, and try new things. You will be full of vitality in this season, free and expansive to do what your soul desires. It is an intense season for spiritual growth, as passion is at an all time high. However, this can lead to burnout, just as our skin can physically burn from the sun exposure, our mental health can suffer just as much. Don’t over book or over promise during summer. Although our energy is at it’s highest and we feel the most confident, we still need to balance the intensity that comes with the rising heat. Enjoy the abundance of fresh produce and most importantly - make time for play.
Remember - nothing in nature blooms all year round, so don’t expect yourself to🩷.
