And just like that: the year is almost over… December 21st marks Winter Solstice this year. It’s when yang energy is at its lowest and when yin energy is at its highest. These are the longest, darkest, and coolest days of the season, meaning extra hours of darkness to repair, reflect, and rejuvenate.
Winter is ruled by the water element and the emotion of fear. Water is the most nourishing element, and it is essential for life. Typically this time of year, we tend to feel over-worked and are sleep deprived. Since the water element stores our energy reserves, a lack of rest will deplete this element and the kidneys, winter’s yin organ. This is why protecting our energy and resting is so crucial in the winter… for empaths and HSP’s (Highly Sensitive People), it can be especially difficult to speak up or set boundaries.
What are some ways I can protect my energy this winter and holiday season?
Imagine a beautiful, white bubble around you… Envision it protecting you from any low vibrations (people’s negative thoughts, actions, or beliefs). Do as needed.
A technique to start (or end) your day with… When you’re in the shower, visualize the water as white crystalline energy cleansing your body, as well as your energetic body. Visualize the soap cleansing you of any energy that isn’t for your highest good. Then, visualize the soap (the negative energy) washing down the drain.
Ground yourself… Visualize big tree roots at the bottom of your feet going all the way to the core of the earth, which is the center of the earth. Being in nature will help ground you s well (being by the water, playing in the garden, sitting under a tree). Energy is all intent… Try just simply saying “Please ground me now. Thank you.”
Set an intention for your day when you wake up in the morning…When you start off with positive intentions you are bringing in positive energy to start your day in a more meaningful way.
How can I stay present when experiencing irrational fears?
Stop and breathe... Step back from the situation to allow your emotions to get out of your way. Ask yourself, “what is really happening?” When we get our emotions out of the way, we gain more clarity of the situation that we are fearing. Look at it from an observer’s point of view, then ask yourself if the fear you’re experiencing will matter in a year from now? What about six months from now? Or even a month from now?
If the worst happens (which isn’t often), we must trust that we will somehow handle it. It’s the fear of not knowing how to handle things which amplifies this intense feeling. Look back at something you once feared… You most likely were able to handle it better than you ever thought you could.
I’m an empath or an HSP (Highly Sensitive Person). How can I handle the heaviness of the world?
Try a “shielding” visualization… Shielding is a quick way to protect yourself. Many empaths and sensitive people rely on it to block out toxic energy while allowing the free flow of positive energy. Begin by taking a few deep, long breaths. Then, visualize a beautiful shield of white or pink light completely surrounding your body and extending a few inches beyond it.
Define and express your relationship needs… Knowing your needs and being able to assert them is a strong form of self-protection for empaths. Finding your voice is equivalent to finding your power – otherwise you may become exhausted, anxious, or feel like a doormat in relationships where your basic needs are unmet. Your partner isn’t a mind reader – speak up to safeguard your well-being.
Prevent empathy overload… When you’re absorbing the stress or symptoms of others, it’s important to find an outlet to release the negative energy. Try inhaling lavender essential oil or put a few drops midway between your eyebrows (on your third eye) to calm yourself. When you can, spend time in nature. Balance your alone time with social time. Time management is key for empaths… Try not to plan too many things in one day. aIt’s ok to cancel plans when you get overloaded. This is a skill all empaths must learn so that you don’t feel obliged to go out if you are tired and need to rest.
The “Jaguar Protection Meditation”… When you need extra protection, we recommend using this meditation to call on the power of the jaguar to protect you. The jaguar is a fierce and patient guard who can keep toxic energy and people away. This type of meditation is useful when there is too much negativity coming at you too quickly. Picture what the jaguar looks like: their fierce, loving eyes; their sleek body; the graceful, yet purposeful way the jaguar moves. Envision yourself feeling secure in the circle of the jaguar’s protection.