Winter Solstice 冬至 DōngZhì

The longest night of the year is the nadir, accessing deep into the mystery and cosmic time. Yang has completed its productivity for the year and needs to rest in the cushion of yin. Pushing our agendas spends from the savings account. It’s safer to default toward quietude and rest. When we focus on filling space with productivity and agendas, and haven’t practiced being a vessel for emptiness, the vast undefined quality of Wú Wéi 冬至 (non-action) can sometimes feel uncomfortable. Yet stillness and the void is where insight and clarity emerges, like mud falling to the bottom of the pond leaving clear water above. With interpersonal engagements, graciousness and gratitude without collapsing is recommended. And if you can find time to be alone to nourish your relationship with solitude in a healthy manner, this season is so ripe for it. 

Dao De Jing, Chapter 26 (translated by Steven Mitchell)

The heavy is the root of the light.
The unmoved is the source of all movement.

Thus the Master travels all day
without leaving home.
However splendid the views,
she stays serenely in herself.

Why should the lord of the country
flit about like a fool?
If you let yourself be blown to and fro,
you lose touch with your root.
If you let restlessness move you,
you lose touch with who you are.

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