How to Prepare for the -Ber Months
November 2024
By Anjalee Patel, DACM, Dipl. OM, PTA
During the cooler -Ber months, the concepts of hibernation and reflection resonate deeply, both in nature and within you. By embracing the themes of hibernation and reflection, you can navigate the colder months with a sense of purpose and calm, preparing for the renewal that comes with spring.
Here’s How You Can Embrace Winter Preparation
Hibernation
- Slow down: Just as many animals hibernate, consider slowing your pace. Reduce your commitments and allow for more downtime to recharge.
- Cozy spaces: Create a warm, inviting environment at home. Think of soft blankets, warm lighting and comfortable seating that encourages relaxation.
- Restful activities: Engage in activities that promote relaxation, such as reading, journaling or practicing meditation. These help you connect with your inner self.
Reflection
- Introspection: Use this time for self-reflection. Consider journaling your thoughts, experiences and feelings from the past year. What have you learned? What do you want to focus on moving forward?
- Set intentions: Rather than making resolutions, consider setting intentions for the coming months. What do you hope to cultivate in your life?
- Mindfulness practices: Incorporate mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep breathing, to help ground yourself and enhance self-awareness.
Nature Connection
- Nature walks: Even in colder weather, take walks in nature to observe the changes in the environment. It can be a peaceful way to reflect and connect with the season.
- Seasonal rituals: Create personal or family rituals that celebrate the winter months, such as lighting candles, sharing stories or cooking comforting meals.
A Friendly Note
Remember that these -Ber months bring quick weather patterns, which include extra windy days. High winds can affect and sweep away your “Wei Qi,” or surface Qi, which protects you from getting sick. Thus, you can get sick easily if you are not protecting your neck and head!
This season, please remember to wear a light scarf, jacket or even a hat to protect your body from getting a cold. However, if you do get sick, you know where to go to help care for it.
Stay cozy!
Schedule an Appointment
You can schedule an appointment today by calling A Touch of Ginger (ATOG) at (630) 299-3464 or schedule an appointment online. If you don’t live near an ATOG office, you can use a search engine and search for “acupuncture near me” to find a licensed acupuncturist in your area.
Anjalee Patel, LAc, DACM, Dipl. OM, PTA, is a Licensed Acupuncturist, a Doctor of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine, a Diplomate of Oriental Medicine and a Physical Therapist Assistant at A Touch of Ginger.