Artwork by Esther Bennink
As we step gently into the embrace of January, we find ourselves immersed in the tender energy of a new year. The light, though subtle, is quietly returning with each passing day, cradled in the serene depth of Winter.
But instead of rushing forward, let’s pause. Let’s not dive headfirst into the new year. Instead, let’s sink deeper into the dreaming Earth, allowing her slow rhythms to guide us.
The Winter Solstice, Nature’s New Year, has just passed—a portal through the dark nights that reminds us of the importance of keeping our inner flame alive. Whether through gathering in rituals and feasts or tending to our solitude with journaling, meditation, and movement, there’s an ancient wisdom within us that knows how to nurture light during these dark, quiet days.
In this final stretch of Winter, we are learning how to lean into rest, self-care, and the act of listening—to the inarticulate speech of the heart. Let January be a time of intentional stillness, an opportunity to deepen your connection to the earth’s slow and steady hum.
Soon enough, the earth will stir, ushering us back into the outer world. But resist the urge to rush ahead with resolutions and “shoulds” dictated by the mind. Instead, trust the quiet places within. Move intuitively, dream alongside the earth, and allow your New Year’s wisdom to emerge from a place of rooted stillness.
As Rumi so wisely reminds us:
This January,
sink deep into the roots.
Everything begins there.
Simple Skincare Tips to Thrive This Winter
Winter’s icy grip doesn’t have to mean stressed or dry skin. With the right ritual, your skin can not only survive but thrive! Follow these key steps to protect and nourish your skin all season long:
1. Cleanse with Care
Use a pH-balanced cleanser and wash with warm water—never too hot or cold! Extreme temperatures can worsen dryness, rosacea, and broken capillaries.
2. Gentle Exfoliation
Skip harsh acid peels in winter. Instead, opt for Clay Masks mixed with spring water. Clay increases oxygenation, improves circulation, and gently smooths skin without disrupting the microbiome or acid mantle.
3. Nighttime Nourishment
Always remove makeup before bed. If your room is heated, use a humidifier. On your skin, combine a moisturizer with shea butter and several mistings of HydroSoul to mimic your skin’s moisturizing strategy. This blend won’t clog pores–just avoid products with mineral oils or petroleum.
Your skin will thank you all winter long.
