Many times, we run towards the first opportunity to celebrate and bask in the glory of the summer solstice. But what about enjoying and welcoming the winter solstice into our lives? Why is there no moment to enjoy taking a breath and resting, just as the small mammals and plants do? Time flies, and we should give ourselves time to enjoy it.

The winter solstice is the day with the least amount of sunlight and its celebrations can be traced back to the Romans, Norsemen, and Incas. It was celebrated because it marked the new year- a time for renewal and spring. Blossoming flowers and colorful shrubbery will fill the streets with the sensation of new opportunities.

The shortest day of the year is on this day, but it also has the highest yin energy (female) and yang energy (male). It is the perfect time to align yourself with the universe and rejuvenate yourself. We spend so much of our time in action and not even pausing to take a breath and check-in with ourselves. Most of us don't spend enough time reflecting on ourselves and it negatively affects the energy that flows through us.

I totally understand, it is the end of the year and it is a stressful time with a jam-packed schedule of parties, events, shopping, and holidays. It is because of that, though, that we need to spend some time focusing inward and take care of the energy within us. Remember that you do not need to go to every event that you are invited to. You are not indebted to anyone.

It is the time to reflect on the past year that you have had and to take a deep breath.

What did you learn this year? What did you feel? What did it mean? What changes should I make to improve the quality of my life? Maybe it feels selfish to take care of yourself during this time of the year, but if you aren't at your best, how can you help others?

We cannot constantly stay in our yang state of mind, where we are constantly getting things done and being productive at all hours of the day. It isn't a way of life that you can keep permanently and it can have an extremely negative impact on your life. To recharge from this, it is good to meditate, drink lots of fluids, read and take a bath.

Enjoy your holiday season. Spend time with your family and friends. Send good energy out into the universe. But don't forget to take time to yourself. Allow yourself to rest this winter solstice and blossom in the Spring.