As someone who has always loved the hot, bright, long days of summer, the arrival of November in the Northeast has never been my favorite time of year… even though I’m a Sagittarius and it is my birthday month! Embracing November hasn’t always been easy. I love the anticipation of spring, as it leads up to summer, and the beautiful colors and crisp air of early fall. But once Halloween has passed, and we step into November, the scenery changes dramatically. Most of the leaves have fallen to the ground, and the days become shorter, colder, and drearier. But over time, I’ve come to appreciate this month for the wisdom it offers. Here’s a little appreciate post for it. 🍂
Spring: A Time for Renewal
The time when nature wakes from its long nap, promising rebirth and growth.
Summer: A Season of Abundance
The ultimate season of abundance and plentifulness.
Fall: A Time for Letting Go and Welcoming Change
And then comes fall, when the trees change into beautiful shades of red, orange, and gold, only to soon drop their leaves to the ground. While it always feels like a loss, it’s a reminder that letting go of what no longer serves us is essential for growth and renewal.
Winter: A Time for Rest and Reflection
Winter invites us to rest and reflect. It’s the season to cozy up in our homes, and create a sanctuary for self-care and future growth.
As much as I try to hold on to every last bit of summer and the warmer days of early fall, I’m now beginning to embrace nature’s transition through all its seasons.
Embracing November
Here are ten ways to embrace November and the winter months ahead:
- Hygge It Up: Embrace the Danish concept of Hygge by lighting your favorite beeswax candle, wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket, and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere in your home.
- Cozy Reading: Dive into a good book, preferably while cozily wrapped in a soft blanket with a cup of your favorite hot beverage.
- Sip Hot Beverages: From mulled cider to golden milk and cocoa, indulge in a variety of hot beverages to warm your soul and nourish your senses.
- Get Cozy with Nature: Don’t let the colder weather deter you from enjoying the outdoors. Put on warm attire and take a brisk walk through the rustling leaves.
- Prioritize Self-Care: Use this transitional month to engage in self-reflection, meditation, and mindfulness practices. It’s an ideal time to conserve your inner strength and prepare for the renewed sense of purpose and energy that lies ahead.
- Craft and Create: Explore your creative side with crafting or art projects.
- Bake and Cook: Experiment with new recipes and fill your home with the comforting smell of freshly baked goods and hearty homemade meals.
- Embrace Gratitude: Start a gratitude journal by jotting down things you’re thankful for each day, or make a “50 things I’m grateful for” list. This practice can seriously shift your focus to the positive aspects of life.
- Spend Time with Loved Ones: The cozy ambiance of November is perfect for spending quality time with family and friends. Enjoy a movie or game night and make lasting memories.
- Plan for the Future: Use this time to reflect on your goals and aspirations for the coming year. It’s the ideal season to set intentions and plant the seeds for the growth you want to achieve in the future.
So, as November has arrived, let’s embrace the wisdom it offers – the wisdom of letting go, conserving strength, and making room for new growth. Just like the trees, we can shed what no longer serves us and enter the silence of winter with a sense of purpose, ready to bloom anew when spring comes around again. 🍂