As we in the Northern Hemisphere experience the darkest day of our year, the Winter Solstice, we also find ourselves entering the season of the Water Element in Chinese theory.

Downward, deep into the earth water flows, steadfast into the darkness. Winter's cold draws energy of life into the earth, for rest, for storage, and renewal. Simultaneously, water is the source of impetus, of life, and vitality. Water enjoys freedom of movement and creates purification as it cleanses and flows.

Water energy is primal, it powers our will for life survival and it invites us to confront the deeper darker places of our being, our fears. The willpower of water helps us to flee from predators, and to be relentlessly brave as we confront our own shadows and dark nights. The ability to rest and rebalance completes the essence of water energy.

May we take time this winter season to flow with ease and compassion to our darkest places of self and move through our entire beings enjoying purity and plenty of rest. Hope during the darkest day is assured as a new solar year has been born.