A Soul’s Winter

A Soul’s Winter is not contained within a certain amount of time, 

Rather,

A Soul’s Winter is defined by the length of hibernation needed for the recuperation of the Soul.

The onset of a Soul’s Winter can be recognised by the subtle 

(or sometimes overwhelming) 

Desire 

To go inside.

To become very still.

To be alone.

As you do not know the length of a Soul’s Winter you must prepare for the long haul, ensuring the Soul can hibernate for as long as needed.

Firstly, the Soul will need a burrow, a sacred space in which the Soul can sit - quiet, warm, and safe.

Then for nourishment and sustenance:

It can get very dark during a Soul’s Winter, so candles are essential, and perhaps even a memory or two, written down or close to hand to lighten the mood.

Books, Books and more Books- books of every kind, for reading and writing (righting).

A good pair of binoculars are handy to have so you can keep an eye out for blossoms on the horizon.

A fury friend or two to provide warmth and companionship (they should be excellent listeners, and only respond on occasion)

Feeding the body and being gentle on the body during a Soul’s Winter is an imperative.  The body requires deep rest so that it can be a meaningful companion for the Soul.  Allow it.

During the Soul’s Winter, coming out of your burrow to socialise is ill advised.  Rather,

Welcome those few special creatures into your burrow and let them take turns in warming and replenishing your Soul.

It can be a lonesome journey - wintering with your Soul.

But, 

honest solitude is where the magic happens.

One day, you will peak out of your burrow, and there it will be, the first signs of spring.  A gentle signal that we can begin integration.  This should be done at a slow pace.  Wintering is tough, and we may still be a bit wobbly.  Take your time.

What a gift a Soul’s Winter is.  If you ever receive an invitation, it comes highly recommended.

Poem and Image by Debra Ogilvie-Roodt