This coming Sunday, Brandee and I will be hosting our second seasonal workshop: Winter Still. When we first approached the idea of Winter, we couldn’t help but begin with the baggage of the season - the dread, the resistance, the begrudging idea that it is something we must “endure” or need to “get through.” Jeez, we thought, people are pretty harsh on Winter. Still, we get it. For many, Winter is the one that is harsh! She requires more effort and more discomfort. Whether this discomfort comes from the physical burden of feeling cold, dry from indoor heating and the lack of humidity, the burden of bundling up and undressing throughout the day, the slow dissipation of sunlight, or the collectively felt desire - even against the strength of a counter will - to retreat. Aha. Here it was, the actual reason for the seasonal stigma. In winter’s stillness the exterior focus softens and the interior life comes into feeling. We cannot attach so easily to the outside world of socialization, business, and routine. With no place to turn, we are confronted with our own emotional tides. The cold chases us deep inside and, in this place, it is demanded that we explore our depths. In our depths we see our demons, our mysteries, and our unfathomable, to be sure. But, in our depths we also encounter our inner richness; our ultimate vitality; our absolutely burning aliveness. This insight led me to an Albert Camus quote that perfectly encapsulates the message and intention of the Winter Still workshop:
“In the depths of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.” - Albert Camus
This workshop is an opportunity to tune into your natural, internal rhythm. While the outside hums slowly we allow ourselves to move within and experience the ever present heat of our own self-generating energy.
We invite you to join us for this most special event.
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