There is something sweet in the darkness and decay of the nature around here. I am reminded that there is beauty in letting go, there is charm in the dying leaves and the skeletons of what used to be flowers. There can’t be bright colors and sun all the time. Just like the plants, we must rest. We must create that space to surrender into ourselves and focus our energy back into our root structures. This is the time of re-grounding and re-weaving back into earth.
Yes, the solstice has graced us and has now passed. We are now in the waxing stages of winter. Each day is starting to get a little longer and a little brighter. With this, winter is still upon us, and is here for another two months or so. Why do some of us have a hard time in these months? Commonly, as our circadian rhythms set to shorter days, our melatonin is being triggered to produce sooner in the day. When it starts to get dark at 5pm, our melatonin starts to kick in. This hormone can cause more sleepiness, drowsiness, and a general feeling of calm. This can outwardly show up as: dullness, low mood, disinterest, lacking inspiration, melancholic, or the winter blues.
As a part of nature, we mirror the larger patterns at play. Seasonal shifts are a wonderful example. With winter, it is quiet, most plants are now skeletons, and the energy is turning inwards. With summer, there is hustle and bustle, expansiveness, flowers are in bloom, and the energy is turning outwards. Currently, with the cold and dark winter months, remembering to stoke our internal fire can help be a guiding light until spring. What are some ways you can stoke that internal fire?
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)
Actions: Nervine, antidepressant, carminative, diaphoretic, antiviral, diuretic
As part of the mint family, this herb has strong aromatic oils. The shear smell of this plant can bring the senses to life. Aromatics are stimulating in nature, and can get our energetic systems moving. Known to improve mood and cognitive function, lemon balm can reach down into the depths of our souls, and help uplift our spirits.
Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)
Actions: Antidepressant, antispasmodic, carminative, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiinflammatory, circulatory stimulant, bitter
A well known culinary herb, most people have rosemary in their kitchens. Rosemary is another aromatic plant just like lemon balm. Traditionally rosemary has been used to increase circulation and cognitive function, decrease brain fog, support depressed states by uplifting the mood, and bring warmth to the extremities. A cup of rosemary tea in the morning or afternoon can help get the body and mind going.
Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum)
Actions: Adaptogen, antioxidant, antidepressant, carminative, immunomodulator, neuroprotective
Tulsi, also known as Holy Basil, is classified as an adaptogen. Adaptogens are known to help decrease stress by making outside stressors more manageable. As winter months are notoriously known for the “cold and flu” months, tulsi can provide a gentle long term support to the immune system, creating a deep strength to help ward off sickness. Another name of tulsi is “Queen of Herbs.” The divine nature of this plant can be comforting in times of isolation, sadness, or lack of inspiration.
Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus)
Actions: immune tonic, adaptogen, stimulant, antioxidant
Call on eleuthero to help with mental fog, fatigue, and sluggishness throughout the day. With its stimulant properties, it is a great ally for the morning or mid afternoon. This herb can help wean off caffeine or other stimulants, while enhancing endurance and performance. Eleuthero is another herb that can help strengthen immune function and productivity.
*If you are new to trying this herb, start with a small dose and use in the morning*
Rose (Rosa spp.)
Actions: Nervine, antiinflammatory, antioxidant, antidepressant, astringent
A flower that smells delightful, looks beautiful, and feels heavenly. Rose is an herb that has been used to soothe grief, offer calmness in times of distress, and can uplift the mood out of darkness. Just as soft as the petals, this same action is applied to the heart, remembering and confirming that it is ok to soften in such a hard world. Pair rose with tulsi in a tea, and become captivated by their dance.
In a fast and ever-moving culture, remember that it is ok to move a little slower in winter, to lay in bed a little longer, to rest in the quietness. It can be empowering to find your own rhythm in these months. Find what feels good for you, and when you are looking for support, call on these allies to get you through.