We can learn so much from nature, especially in the way animals embrace the changing of seasons and how they conserve their energy in the colder months while embracing greater activity in the transitional seasons.
Take, for example, the ladybug. Did you know that ladybugs hibernate during the winter as a way to conserve their energy? Their hibernation period can last up to 3-4 months of the year, and they only come out of hibernation if they need to source food.
While modern life tries to convince us that our lives should be lived at high speed all year round, it is usually our bodies that put the brakes on and force us to stop. During my 20s, every winter, without a doubt, I would either be struck down with a chest infection or a sinus infection, and my body would force me to stop and rest while it healed and regained its balance.
I completely played into the narrative that winter was the season I got sick. I mean, why wouldn't I? Everywhere I looked, I was being told that a bug was lurking around the corner, ready to hijack my immune system. Isn't that just what we do: get sick during winter? I mean, all the most powerful flus, colds, viruses, sore throats, and tummy bugs are all looking for new homes over winter, so why should I think I could be immune to their power?
That was until I realised I could actually fortify my body by supporting it with some supercharged tools.
I have learned to build a protective moat to support my immune system by keeping my body strong and prioritising rest, balance, and stamina.
MIND
Breathwork can really transform your relationship with your nervous system and slow down your mental chatter. This makes it the perfect practice to reduce your body’s stress levels. We all know that increased stress can reduce our immune system's effectiveness, and this is definitely something our body doesn't need during winter.
A great breathing technique that helps to reduce stress and anxiety is Alternate Nostril Breathing. You can practice it for just 2-3 minutes and start to notice a huge shift in your stress levels. However, if you're looking for a complete nervous system reboot, I recommend practicing it for at least 10 minutes.
In this video, I guide you through the practice and help you find your natural rhythm.
BODY
Winter is a marathon; if you run into it at full pace, you will definitely be smacked by a few unseen low-lying branches. One of the biggest mistakes I have made with my fitness is thinking that I need to keep pushing all year round to get results.
Winter demands that we be present with our bodies, listen, and understand its subtle cues to decipher whether it needs a bit more rest or nourishment. Pushing in winter hasn't worked for me, but being consistent definitely has. I know that if I run at least once a week and practice yoga 2-3 times a week, then by spring, I will be ready to up my exercise without feeling like I have lost all my fitness.
I recommend keeping yourself moving this winter. If you're lacking inspiration, you can try this 20-minute flow in the comfort of your own home, and remember, any movement is better than none at all.
ENERGY BODY
One of the quickest and easiest ways to clear your energy body of other people's energetic imprints is to use essential oils. As you already know, I use doTERRA essential oils for their high therapeutic grade quality.
Some of my favorite essential oils to use for my own personal energy clearing are:
Peppermint Oil
Lemongrass
Lemon Myrtle
Spearmint Oil
Rosemary Oil
I personally like to place a few drops in the palms of my hands and rub them together. I then open my palms wide enough to cup them over my nose and mouth, and I slowly inhale three times.
Once that is done, I take my hands and lightly trace the outline of my body. I visualise that my hands are like a super sticky lint brushes that pick up the fluff from your clothing.
Instead of picking up fluff, my hands are gathering all the unwanted energy that I may have collected throughout my day. Once I have traced the whole outline of my body, I open the palms of my hands, direct three strong exhales, and visualise all the energy I collected being blown back up into the earth’s energy matrix to be recycled and cleansed, leaving me feeling lighter and burden-free. I highly recommend giving it a try.
If you're interested in getting started with these oils, you can purchase from me by using this LINK (if you're within Australia). If you are somewhere else in the world but would still like to try these oils, drop me an email at info@deehoward.com.au, and I will send you a secure link to purchase.
I hope these tips help you stay well this Winter.
Big Love,
Dee
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