Can You Feel The Solitude Coming?

 

As we move closer to the dark season, there is always a nagging feeling. I begin to get right around this time of year. Almost a disconnect from my practice and a deep sense to go into hermit mode. 

When these moments begin to hit these are some of the feelings that can overcome you. Do you feel like you're just going through the motions, living someone else's life? Maybe you're stuck in a job you hate, or you're constantly trying to meet others' expectations. If you're nodding along to any of these, you're not alone.

 It can be a nagging feeling that something's off, but you can't quite put your finger on it. It literally drains your energy. 

 

Always second-guessing yourself, wondering if you're on the right path.

 

What Ive learned over time is that this disconnect often happens when we're not being true to ourselves. We get so caught up in what we think we should be doing that we forget to ask what we actually want.

 

So, let's talk about how to get back on track:

Get clear on your desires: It's okay if you don't have all the answers right now. Start small. What activities make you lose track of time? What topics get you fired up? These can be clues to what really matters to you.

 

Practice self-awareness: Our minds are often racing, filled with worries and to-do lists. Try this: set a timer for 2 minutes and just focus on your breath. It's a simple way to quiet the noise and tune into yourself.

 

Identify your core values. Think about times when you felt truly satisfied or proud. What values were you honoring in those moments? Recognizing these can help guide your decisions moving forward.

Also spending time with our animals is another way to realign yourself with who you are. Take them for a walk or play fetch or simply lay in bed or on the couch and cuddle up and watch a movie and take a nap!

 If you can think about a time when you felt truly alive and fulfilled. Chances are, in that moment, you were being authentically you and unfazed by overthinking or burnt out. You weren't trying to fit into someone else's mold or meet external expectations. You were simply being yourself.

 

That feeling? It's not just a fleeting moment of happiness. It's a glimpse of what life could be like when you're living in alignment with your true self.

 

So here's my challenge to you: This week, do one small thing that feels genuinely you and only for yourself. It doesn't have to be big or life-changing. Maybe it's wearing that outfit you love but have been too nervous to try or in my case coloring my hair because that speaks to my authentic self some may disagree that the act of allowing my crone to fly free is more authentic however what I know of myself from dealing with her for 50 years is that a box of black hair color reminds me of the witch I am. Or simply taking a moment for yourself in the complete silence of your sacred space.

 

After you've done it, pay attention to how you feel. Did you notice any changes in your mood? Your energy levels? Your interactions with others?

The takeaway is that I try to remind myself to be gentle with myself. These moments happen from time to time and maybe, just maybe, if you can get a moment of silence and quiet your mind you might just hear the sounds of your ancestors telling you that you are doing just fine. 

Many Blessings 

Jillian