Embracing the Stillness: My January Hibernation
As the curtains gracefully fell on 2023, I chose to step back from the digital buzz and relish the quiet moments of January. This break wasn't just a way to unwind from the hustle; it was my version of hibernation—a time to find peace, embrace solitude, and engage in heartfelt chats with myself. Away from the noise of the online world, I yearned for simplicity and balance, seeking moments to just listen and think, not talk.
Now don’t get me wrong, work didn't stop, bills kept coming, and the chaos of London persisted—strikes, overcrowded commutes, and the deafening noise of the tubes. Yet, I deliberately slowed down. After the festive frenzy, I made a point to pull back, stay close to my inner circle, and soak up every quiet moment as best I could.
What My January Hibernation Brought to My Sense of Balance:
Discovering Patience in Stillness:
In this quiet time, patience became my guide. I observed winter slowly churning, noticing the gradual change in pattern as the landscape gracefully shifted. Brighter mornings and evenings crept in, filling me with wonder.
Savouring the Sounds of Serenity:
One morning, I woke up to beautiful birdsong—a reminder that peace isn't just about silence but the gentle whispers of nature. These moments created a melody that brought a sense of calmness and tranquillity. Mother nature delivered daily gifts to me.
Nourishing My Soul:
I turned to comforting foods—stews, soups, squashes, sweet potatoes, and yams. And let's not forget the occasional indulgence in macaroni cheese or apple crumble. It wasn't about fitting into a swimsuit; it was about adopting a "who cares" attitude and living in the present, just like nature.
Yes, my curves might have welcomed some winter warmth, but I embraced it. The added comfort cradled me, and I felt beautiful. My "who cares" attitude ruled—I'm living for me, not for what others think.
Conversations with Myself:
During this downtime, I pampered myself, rekindling the woman within. Conversations about inner and outer beauty unfolded—a dialogue just for me and my maker. This January was all about self-love.
Cultivating Connections:
Reflecting on the past, checking in with myself—I cleared out the branches and roots of my tree of life. I distinguished the steadfast from the fallen away, realising there's a time for everything. This time revealed the joy of meeting new faces and understanding why they came into my life.
Heightening the Senses:
Inexplicably drawn to scents, I changed my usual fragrance. It was a simple way to align with the life of simplicity, peace, and stillness that I was embracing.
A Sense of Prayerfulness and Gratitude:
The quiet moments led me to a profound sense of prayerfulness and gratitude, something deeper than before. I found myself focusing more on gratitude, admiring those kind souls around me with positive energy and spirit.
Reflecting on True Balance and Joy:
Stepping away gave me the chance to reflect on what I truly desire. It prompted contemplation on finding real balance and discovering sources of joy and peace for the year ahead. Conversations with my sister revealed a simple truth—I'm paving the way for a quieter life, free from unnecessary noise, and a deeper sense of inner peace.
Rolling into February with Renewed Clarity:
As January bid adieu, I have rolled into February with a renewed sense of clarity. The echoes of this hibernation linger, guiding me towards a simpler, intentional way of living—one that resonates with the rhythms of me and my life. How blissful is that?