Settle

Autumn is well underway, and the season of wind and rain is upon us even as we enjoy the way the sea still holds the summer heat.

As we settle into the slower months, let’s not fall for the expectations and pressures of seeking perfection. Don’t fall into the trap of believing you need more. More things. More plans. This year, let’s flex our no muscles.  Let’s set boundaries around what we actually want to do, rather than what we feel obliged to do. Because when we give ourselves the time and permission to slow down, to stop trying to make every year bigger and better, we can begin to notice the magic that is already here.

The quiet mornings. The darker evenings. The warmth of home. The people around us. And perhaps, most importantly, the gift of time. When you’re next out on an early morning frosty walk, wrapped up warm, keep your eyes peeled for foliage you might like to gather for the start of December. Holly and bracken are wonderful for wreaths and garlands, and are easy to spot and gather.  Take your time. Notice the crunch beneath your feet. Feel the cold on your cheeks. Look closely at what’s growing around you. Then bring a little of that outside magic home.

This month, let’s spend some time settling into our warm homes. Wrapped up by the fire, reading a good book, building a Christmas wreath from our gathered foliage or cutting out salt dough decorations together.

Because remember: it’s not stuff we want. It’s time.

Time together.

So settle.

Root.

Feel your feet tucked into your fluffy socks. Feel the weight of your jumper across your skin. Notice the warmth around you.

Take a deep breath.

And settle a little deeper into your chair.

Let this be the year you choose time over stuff, presence over perfection, and enough over more.