Another year has been and nearly gone and, in most parts of the world, Winter is coming in thick and fast. This means snow, ice, cold winds, hats and scarfs and, of course, your favourite winter jacket.
However, for most people, winter is a time to escape into the house, load up the fire with wood and hide away from the elements. Hibernating almost. But, this shouldn’t be the case. Why don’t we appreciate the benefits of winter as much as we appreciate the glorious sunshine of the summer?
As an avid meditator, you’ll constantly be told in guided sessions and meditation blogs, such as this one, that you should always be present as well as being grateful for the world around us, whether it’s cold temperatures or not.
To help get you started on this journey of appreciation, here’s a meditation that is crafted to make you feel warm and to start fully appreciating this winter wonderland that will start surrounding us, helping us smile all the way through these darker months.
The Method
Firstly, find a comfortable position and sit yourself down, just like you would a normal session. This can be the first thing you do when you wake up after you’ve eaten a hearty dinner, enjoying a bowl of heart-warming soup or even after a nice winter walk through the woods.
Close your eyes and slow down your breathing for a few breaths. Inhale through your nose for four seconds, hold for two seconds and exhale through your mouth for four seconds.
Then, start to focus on the areas of your body that are cold. This could be your hands, your face, your feet or anything. Once you’ve realised these areas, then change your focus to the other areas of your body, the areas that feel nice and warm.
If you’re wearing any warm clothes while you do this, such as a big jumper, a hoodie, or your favourite pairs of socks, these are the best locations to go to.
Try and draw your attention to what this warm feeling feels like. Does it feel smooth and constant? Does it feel like it’s tingling or prickly? What sensations is your body feeling right now? Really zone in your focus on these areas for the rest of your mediation.
Take a moment to be aware of the heating in your house, or the warmth that your clothes are providing you.
Now open your eyes at the end of your meditation.
What colours do you see? Do you see the fiery reds and oranges of autumn? Maybe you can see Christmas decorations or architecture? Just pay attention to whatever is you can see and realise how it makes you feel, especially when it comes to colours. Also, pay attention to any smells you can smell.
Are there any smells that directly relate to winter, autumn or Christmas?
Go around all your senses and whatever feeling or feedback you get, be sure to make it come back to this time of year and only this time of year. Be grateful that you can experience it right now.
Conclusion
This is a great practice session because you can do it anytime, anywhere, whether you’re at home, in your garden, sitting on the bus, at work or simply going about your daily business. You can practice it for a minute, five minutes or hours, depending on how you feel.
Let us know how you get on by leaving a comment in the comment section below!