Inward

As fall winds down and we move into the deep of winter weather and the shortest days of the year, it is a good time to reflect on how we are changing, both inwardly and outwardly, with each passing season.

Seasonal Reflection & Inner Change

Nature, our quiet teacher, reminds us that change is both natural and necessary.

Change is a part of life - we see the leaves change color first and then begin to fall steadily until all of the deciduous trees are bare. It is a reminder from nature that we are ever-changing. And while we may not like change, it is necessary and a part of the plan of creation.

So as we end this year and move into a new one, it is a good time to look inward to notice what daily habits, rituals and attitudes are helping us change into a more loving, kind and compassionate person and which ones do not serve us well and keep us in a state of agitation and fear and comparison and judgment.

An Invitation to Intention

Simple rituals create space for reflection and renewal.

If you do not have a 'New Year' ritual except for over-imbibing in adult beverages and fireworks, this is your invitation to take time for self-examination and introspection. A time to set intentions for the coming new year - to choose change over stagnation and regret - to even embrace change as a good thing.

The Universe urges us to change and grow and evolve into the highest and best version of ourselves possible in these human vessels.

A Pause for Reflection

Do we curse the new neighbor who doesn't speak English or do we bring them a welcome basket?

Do we genuinely get giddy with happiness for someone who receives a huge blessing or do we grumble about not getting one for ourselves?

Do we recognize each day as a blessing or do we curse it as soon as we open our eyes?

We are called to evolve into loving all our neighbors - which represents all of humanity. Do we evolve or do we stagnate in fear and loathing?

A simple pause can become a quiet threshold between reflection and intention.

An End-of-Year Ritual

Either on the last day of this year or the first day of the new year, take time to make a list of what you want to discard and what new habits/emotions/attitudes you want to cultivate and grow.

It may be helpful to write the things that no longer serve you on paper and throw that into the fire (or burn it in a metal bowl or can if you do not have a fireplace or fire pit).

It may also be helpful to write your top three changes you want to cultivate on stones or on paper and taped to stones.

You can keep these stones on your bedside table or on a table where you sit to drink your morning coffee or tea so you'll get a daily reminder of your goals.

Using something tangible can help us return to our intentions more consistently.

Don't be surprised if the universe throws you some opportunities to put your intentions into practice. Challenges are meant to help us grow! As we recognize those opportunities and rise to meet them, our paths naturally take us toward further blessings and opportunities for improvement.

We are continually a work in progress but are always being called to know ourselves more intimately and love ourselves (and therefore others) more deeply.

May you take time this holiday season to cherish all your blessings, rise to all your challenges and embrace all the changes!

Merry Christmas - Happy Hannukah - Happy Holidays!

May the New Year bring you peace, joy and love.

Thank you for being part of our wellness community!

Dr. Miller