I don’t like the winter.   Or at least I didn’t.  I’ve never liked the cold weather and it seems like it’s dark all the time here in Michigan between the shorter days and the overcast and cloudy skies.  Gloomy winter days used to be all I associated with winter.

Qigong has changed that for me.  I’ve been practicing Qigong since May of 2008.  It has changed my outlook, my life, and dare I say – my karma.   I still don’t like winter weather… but I must say that I have more appreciation for nature and enjoy being outside even on cold days now.

I actually love the winter months now… I associate them with very deep and intense meditations.  I’ve learned that in the winter there is an energetic pull inwards.  This results in deep inner work and meditative states that are easier than usual to achieve.

I discovered this last winter and remember that in the spring when I noticed a difference in the “feel” of my meditations I really missed the depth.  Now that I realize that it is seasonal I will thoroughly enjoy the winter energy while it lasts!  The next couple of weeks are especially good!

This week is great with solstice around the corner and the yin new moon in a couple of days the inward pull of the energy will be the strongest of the year.  I plan to meditate and revel in it both in my regular Qigong practice and my sitting and standing meditations as well.  It is a very special time of year energetically!

I think it is no coincidence that this time is observed with holidays in so many religious (and pagan) traditions!  Whatever your tradition… have a happy holiday season!