Winter is really getting serious about itself now!!

Winter is really getting serious about itself now as the 2 degree morning wraps itself around the house. The fog has left everything dripping wet and it looks like time is standing still out there. Galahs echo their song from a distance but I can’t see them. The sun didn’t rise with its usual display and is now a background glow.

Yes I am trying to be poetic and not complain about the temperatures dropping but its …. cold!! Howard has returned to the house with icy hands, ready for a cuppa. I think about the homeless people who have to sleep outdoors and the people who find winter effects their health. If winter has you feeling a bit flat, here are some tips I hope you enjoy..

How to feel better during winter…

If you are not feeling so great then the best place to start can be in the present moment. We can usually manage what is happening right in front of us. It can be the thoughts about the future or the past that can be hard to deal with. Really taste your food, hear the sounds, see the detail and breathe, notice the flow of your beautiful breath. Notice your body and relax a little. Have a stretch. Notice your hands, your feet, your spine…lift the posture a little. Smile.

Ah there we are, in the moment….

Next comes gratitude and if practiced well it can really lift the spirits. Don’t just think about what you have to be thankful for, feel how good it is to have these things in your life. Feel it….Heating, a hot shower, a big hug, warm food, a comfy bed, your body with all its intricate functions, the deep and mysterious sky, the 1000’s of birds, tall trees, tiny flowers…being loved. Focus on one area and really give thanks.

Gratitude maintains the good feelings we have. Gratitude inspires optimism and hope. Gratitude aligns with contentment. When I am in a state of gratitude I feel like I am being a good person who is able to give from a place of fullness. It makes me want to give back and help others because my life is so abundant.  let me share a little secret, I think the gratitude multiplies our blessings. Also the happiness I feel when I am giving is like nothing else. Happiness is an action. You give happiness. You don’t wait for someone to place it in your lap. You have to make it a good day for those around you and yourself. It sort of works back to front in a way.

If you are feeling a bit flat or low in energy and you feel like you have heard it all before then get back to basics and ensure you are meeting all your basic needs. Are you getting enough sleep? (Try a Deep Relaxation) Are you eating nutritionally rich foods? Are you hydrated? Are you getting some exercise? What inspires you? Who inspires you? I say to women, ’No one is going to notice if you skip your breakfast, you just have to take responsibility for yourself.’  Seek the professional information you need and take action so that Winter 2013 has lots of wonderful memories. Be great!