The Winter Solstice just happened on December 21st. And its unique characteristics and symbolism made me think of several themes that can be related to releasing ADHD from your existence, using a wholistic wellness approach.
Growing up I always loved winter and I truly never understood why. Especially when most kids loved summertime. As I sit here surrounded by family and my little one, it dawned on me. Wintertime meant more time with my family because of the holiday break, a possible snow day here and there, drinking hot cocoa with my mom, and wrapping up under intentionally warmed blankets to watch movies. It meant spending more time visiting family and gathering around food, exchanging gifts and laughter.
Looking back, without me realizing it, winter meant slowing down, sitting with my thoughts and family, and living in the moment. It meant decluttering our homes to make space for the new and setting new goals. Now that I am an adult, it makes sense why most people I know, including myself, request the last weeks off of the year, always wishing we had more time.
I’ve listed 5 themes that wintertime symbolizes to me and how embracing these themes has helped me to release the labels of ADHD. By listening to our bodies and being in sync with the universe, we become one with nature, as we’re intended to. Being filled with anxiety and sadness, and feeling overwhelmed and overstimulated are signs that we are not in sync with how we should be living. If you are thinking that a life without anxiety, overwhelm, and overstimulation isn’t possible for you, think again. It most certainly is! You hold the power to manifest ANY life you want to live, even though we’ve been conditioned to think it’s nearly impossible.
- Renewal and New Beginnings: The solstice marks the start of astronomical winter, symbolizing new beginnings and fresh starts. This theme resonates with releasing ADHD, shedding what doesn’t serve you, developing new strategies for overcoming it; and embracing a fresh perspective. If you've been poor with time management with your kids' activities, try asking for assistance or dropping the amount of activities. Not an option, manifest a new life situation where you envision having the help you need. Use affirmations like, "I am on early to any event I attend". (CLICK HERE for a guided meditation to show you how to do this)
- Reflection and Introspection: Winter Solstice is the longest night of the year and the start of winter. It encourages introspection and reflection. It’s time to look back over the past year, evaluate your progress, and make plans for the future. If you’re still not living a life without ADHD, consider what strategies have worked and what areas need more attention. Whether it’s better manifesting techniques to live the life you want; or to learn how to heal your root chakra so that you get rid of your anxiety disorders. One thing I will add here is to not set new goals just yet. Winter is a time of reflection, spring is the time to set new goals. So hold off on your “New Year's Resolutions”. More about that in another post.
- Quiet and Mindfulness: The stillness and quiet of winter can provide a respite from the overstimulation often experienced by those with ADHD. Emphasizing mindfulness and quiet contemplation during this time can aid in mental clarity and stress reduction. Especially since we live in a world that has conditioned us to believe that if we aren’t busy, we aren’t being productive. If someone invites you somewhere and you feel it in your soul to say “NO”, then decline the invite. Find your balance in life, such as balancing activity and rest, social interaction and solitude, or work and play.
- Inner Light and Hope: The gradual return of longer days after the solstice symbolizes hope and the enduring presence of light, even in darkness. This can be an uplifting message for those who’re releasing the label of ADHD, emphasizing hope and resilience in releasing your symptoms. Continue working on your affirmations such as, "I AM HEALED".
- Connection with Nature and Rhythms: The solstice is inherently connected to the natural world and its cycles. Recognizing and aligning with these natural rhythms can help individuals with “ADHD” feel more grounded and connected, potentially easing symptoms like restlessness and impulsivity. When the sun goes down, so should you. Whether it's just to relax or for your full night slumber.
Integrating these themes into daily life during the winter can provide valuable insights and strategies for individuals labeled with ADHD, particularly in a wholistic health context. Will you be incorporating one or all of these? Leave a comment to let me know, I’d love to hear from you.
Peace & Love,
April Nicole
