December always comes in a rush for me; wrapping up the end of the year, preparing for the holidays, showing up for work and clients, looking ahead to the new year, and the list goes on! I am keenly aware of how all of this activity is juxtaposed with shorter days and dormancy in the natural world. I feel the tension and then focus on patience knowing that rest is around the corner after the buzz dies down. 

For many people I have the privilege of working with, creatives, deep thinkers and/or those who know the importance of spiritual growth, carving out quiet spaces to reflect is necessary. I have found that making space for contemplative time daily or weekly, vs. only allowing a slower pace during time off or on vacation, is crucial for my health on all levels.

I often see people running on empty and delaying self-care in relationship to exercise, meals, or regular hygiene. But putting off simple pleasures – such as taking time for a cup of tea, having a short nap during the day, or a leisurely walk – can also take its toll. Prioritizing creative and reflective time that feeds the soul is not only necessary but is also a sign of well-being.

One of the ways that my spiritual and creative lives come together is when I engage in the natural world and reveling in the wonder of animals and wildlife. The last few years I have been attending an Animal Book Club where we read books that focus on animal behavior, the wisdom and beauty of wildlife, as well as a focus on environmental protection of nature and animal habitats. We meet at a local spot called Botanica for dinner, the one vegan restaurant here in town. The food is fantastic 🙂

I have two special gifts to share with you this holiday season in case they appeal to you personally or someone on your gift list. Both of these items offer the opportunity to tap into a more sacred and reflective way of being.

1. I love the writings of Maria Popova where she inquires into themes of nature, art, and cultural criticism in an extraordinary way. Her Almanac of Birds a deck of art/divination cards combines her love of birds and love of language (see one of the images above).
2. My favorite book of the year which I read in my Animal Book club is called ‘Raising Hare’. It is an eloquent memoir by Chloe Dalton, a writer in England, who rescues a hare. This act is a revelation for her that promotes a healing opportunity, allowing a slowness to emerge in her life after years of over-working.

Are you taking enough time for creative contemplation? This can be a tall order when faced with loss, crisis, transition, or simply while experiencing a very full life. We all do the best we can moment to moment. If my message today can encourage you to protect your quiet time and your creative life this season (and in the year to come) my work is done!