Winter Approaches......
We are quickly approaching the Winter Solstice. The above photo has ice beginning to form, and yet there are autumn leaves lining the stream as it travels down to the waterfall. Just barely, crystals of ice on a low hanging branch that dangles above the water, crystal clear, a sign of winter to come.
After a few chilly blasts of weather, it hardly seems like winter is just about here. We awoke to ice covering the lawns this week, and I heard hail one night, as well as a hailstorm while out on the road at work.
The days are shorter, yet the good news is that as of this week, at least here in the Northeast, the time of sunset has gone stationary. And starting next week, on December 13th, sunset will already be a minute later, as the sun begins to make its journey back.
Winter is a time of reflection, of going inward, slowing down. It's always a good time to care of oneself and health needs, but even moreso now in the midst of a lingering pandemic. Use common sense one of my client physicians declared. Be safe and well. Take precautions, follow guidelines as best as one can. Get some rest, curl up with a good book or a good movie.
Even though the weather has been turning colder, regardless of the season, life finds me trekking the mountains, forests, rivers, streams and beaches. The wind has been fierce these last few months, but still I trek when I can, connecting to nature, camera in hand, documenting the changes in light and color, the moods of nature, the animals that appear, from the snowy owls visiting from Canada, to the deer who finally venture out, and the same Peregine falcon who flies over the marsh. I am caught by the silvery reflections on the water's surface, the pounding of the ocean waves, the surfers who venture out in wet suits as the water grows progressively colder.
And seeking warmth at times in hot soups and foods, baking experiments, hot teas, all brings comfort on the winter days to come.
For a full description of health in the changing seasons, please refer to the past articles, outlining diet and tips for a healthy life.
Be well friends
Maery
Snowy owl December 9, 2021
