Autumn. For many the word conjures up images of golden, crunchy leaves, warm jumpers and longer nights. In many cultures autumn, or fall, symbolises change and transformation. The leaves turn to red, orange, yellow and so many shades in-between. And then they fall. If we didn’t know better, we might think the trees were dying. The light too, it seems, is dying as our days are getting shorter and the nights drawing in. Yet, we know these changes are temporary. Animals know it too, and use this time to prepare for the winter, collecting food and creating a cosy hibernation space.
Can you use this time for nourishment too? Encourage your own wellbeing by allowing yourself to slow down and savour the pleasures this season brings. Perhaps light some candles and snuggle with a warm mug of something delicious. Perhaps a mindful forest walk where you really feel the crisp autumn air on your skin, listen carefully to the sound of leaves crunching underneath as you walk, soak up the beautiful colours and sights of the changing forest around you.
Autumn reminds us of the impermanence of life, that everything around us and of us, is constantly changing. Autumn provides a time for reflection. A time to consider changes you want to make. What is no longer serving you that can be let go of? Habits? Relationships? Grudges? Perhaps now is a time to consider forgiveness, letting go of an old transgression.
Here in the UK, many feel frustrated with life under a second lockdown. In March we had the spring and sunshine and gardens to nourish us. Perhaps in Lockdown 2.0 we can make like the animals; snuggle down, take nourishment and use the time to think about positive changes you can make to your life. Lockdown 2 offers a time to instil new habits, let go of old ones, and make time to appreciate and savour what we have.
To help get you started, here is a guided meditation I found on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a22gTHVgBD4