The Dark Is Rising
A note from Carin, our Heart-To-Heart Therapist in ‘The Nook’ at Sow & Root.
As the year turns and the darkness starts to dominate our lives more and more, it is perfectly understandable that we look to find comfort wherever we can, be that fire-snuggling, donning skelly costumes and plastic fangs for Halloween parties, looking skywards at exploding fireworks or simply layering up in umpteen jumpers, hats, scarves and socks.
There are lots of types of escapism from this season as we human beings consistently welcome in and look to the light, but I wonder whether relishing in its opposite is something not only to be to be considered but also necessary?
I let my mind imagine this descent into night through time and wonder how our forebears dealt with it. There is a lot of talk and speculation about wild feasting, wild drinking and honouring of the ancestors through ritual. It is certainly true that people came together at this time of the year through millenia but maybe it has something more to do with how, as the light fades, it brings into sharper relief the need to share experiences with others and to reflect on what has been going on in your life and where your path is leading next.
I find the shortening of the days intensifies the time I spend with other human beings and it enriches me, be that coming into and being welcomed by the candles and incense filling the space at Sow and Root, working with clients in my capacity as a therapist or arriving at friends with the table laid for a sociable and joyful few hours filled with good food and even better chats!
Wherever and to whatever this ‘dark’ time leads you, I hope you find real connection with others and a space in which to move forward with clarity and with peace in your own life.
- Written by Carin Hammond