As we approach the end of the year, it’s time to reflect on what hasn’t been serving us—not just in our gardens but also in our personal lives. This concept ties beautifully into the theme of wellbeing and self health, urging us to turn over new leaves in our metaphorical gardens.
🌱 Understanding the Agricultural Calendar
Today is October 22nd, and as we near Halloween, also known as Samhain to witches, we find ourselves at a unique intersection of time. For witches, this marks the beginning of the new year on November 1st. Interestingly, different cultures have varied interpretations of the new year. For example, in the Jewish calendar, Rosh Hashanah recently occurred, celebrated on the new moon.
We often think of January 1st as the start of the year, but agriculturally speaking, this isn’t the case. December 21st marks the winter solstice, a time when days begin to lengthen. Nature operates on a cycle that is often ahead of our human calendars.
🌞 Nature’s Cycle and Our Lives
Next spring, there will be new leaves, but where do they come from? Trees have been diligently working on their buds since June. If you’re waiting until now to prepare for spring, it’s already too late. Nature is always ahead, and we need to align ourselves with its rhythms rather than an external timeline.
We often say that summer begins at the summer solstice and winter at the winter solstice. However, these markers aren’t about temperature; they relate to light. Plants respond to light cues, not temperature cues, and this understanding can help us prepare for the upcoming seasons.
🍃 Preparing for Winter Solstice
As we ready ourselves for the winter solstice and the return of the light, consider what greens you can gather now. Hildegard of Bingen spoke of “viriditas,” or the greening force, which is essential for our health and vitality during the colder months. This energy bursts forth in the buds and brings forth new growth.
To build your viriditas, collect green plants around you. For example, dandelion leaves, which are often overlooked in the spring, are fabulous right now. They can be transformed into a delicious pesto. Garlic mustard, which stays green through the winter, is another great option for pesto-making.
🌿 Making Green Pesto
What greens can you find in your surroundings? Perhaps you have lemon balm or parsley, both excellent for making a simple pesto. These greens can be preserved to help you through winter, maintaining your wellbeing and self health.
Understanding the natural world and its cycles can profoundly impact how we view our lives. Instead of relying solely on the calendar, recognizing the significance of light and nature’s cues can help us sync with the earth’s rhythms.
🌼 Embracing Our Connection to Nature
As we become more aware of these cycles, we can feel that we’ve already made our buds. This natural process allows us to grow into our true selves. Our psyche is deeply intertwined with these cycles, and we can trust that what we are meant to experience is right here for us.
Just as animals prepare for winter by growing thicker fur, we can prepare by gathering greens, nurturing our bodies, and embracing the changes ahead. Reflect on what you can do to align yourself with the natural world this season.
🌍 Final Thoughts
This has been a wonderful session, emphasizing the importance of understanding nature’s rhythms in our lives. Thank you for joining this exploration of wellbeing and self health. Remember, we are all part of the natural processes around us, and by tuning into these cycles, we can cultivate a deeper connection with ourselves and the world.
Green blessings, everyone!
Susun Weed on WisdomFeed +
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