The Winter Solstice has now passed, the shortest day is behind us, and here in Aotearoa we also welcome Matariki, a time of reflection, remembering those who have passed, celebrating new beginnings, and looking towards the year ahead.

For many of us, this time of year can feel a little funny.

Maybe you're reflecting on where you've been, wondering what's next, or feeling like you're ready to move forward... but winter has other ideas.

The colder days, grey skies and slower pace don't always fill us with motivation. Sometimes they leave us feeling restless, frustrated, or wishing summer would hurry up and arrive.

But maybe winter isn't asking us to do more.

Maybe it's asking us to do less.

Without the cold, we wouldn't appreciate the warmth. Without movement, we wouldn't understand stillness. Nature doesn't rush through winter, and perhaps we don't have to either.

Instead of fighting this season, why not lean into it?

One of my favourite things to do in winter is to rug up on the couch with a warm Milo (or your favourite hot drink), grab a crystal, and simply... look at it.

Not just hold it.

Really look.

Can you see tiny rainbows hiding inside?

Sparkly little inclusions?

Shapes that remind you of mountains, clouds or forests?

Does it feel cool, smooth, waxy or heavier than you remembered?

It still amazes me how much you notice when you slow down.

Labradorite is one of my favourites for this time of year. Its soft greys remind me of winter skies, but then the light catches it and suddenly flashes of blues, greens and gold appear. It's a lovely reminder that even during the greyest seasons, little moments of beauty can still surprise us.

Clear Quartz with inclusions is another favourite. Every piece seems to have its own little world hidden inside.

And if crystals aren't your thing today, that's perfectly okay too.

Pull out that Oracle or Tarot deck you bought months ago and forgot about. 😄

Read a few pages of a good book.

Wrap yourself in a blanket.

Listen to the rain.

Go for a walk with your beanie pulled down over your ears.

Visit the hot pools.

Light a candle.

Make a cuppa.

Or simply sit quietly for five minutes without feeling like you should be doing something else.

Winter has a funny way of reminding us that it's okay to pause.

Sometimes the answers we're looking for don't arrive while we're rushing around trying to find them. They quietly appear when we finally give ourselves permission to stop.

So this season, be kind to yourself.

Take your time.

There is no prize for rushing through winter.

Who knows... the next idea, inspiration, or little spark you've been waiting for might just find you while you're sitting quietly with a crystal, a warm drink, and nowhere else you need to be.

Happy Matariki everyone. 💙