So the dark nights are well and truly here, which I actually rather enjoy! It’s been unseasonably warm, so I’ve still been spending time in the garden, tidying up the leaves and watching everything slow down and let go.
It is the season of letting go of things that no longer serve us: habits, people, beliefs and physical things too. Clearing out old clothes that we no longer reach for can make room for things we love; I’ve been getting some great cosy jumpers from Vinted. Buying second-hand is cheaper and stops clothes from ending up in landfill too.
We are seasonal beings, meant to slow down and nurture ourselves in the cold months with early nights, nourishing food, lots of rest, and, of course, some sort of movement. We are definitely not meant to become couch potatoes, mindlessly watching TV and eating rubbish, but hey, life is hard sometimes and a little of what you fancy does you good. I always have a stash of sweet treats in the fridge, from energy bites, to chocolate-coated dates, date fudge or chocolate truffles- all delicious and also nutritious choices! So do check out our recipes for lots of ideas and inspiration.
Our theme this month is simply slowing down, resting, eating nutritious food with lots of big hearty soups and stews! December is usually a hectic month so take the next few weeks to prioritise self-care and be gentle with yourself.
We had a lovely night away in Bruce our old VW Camper van at Luss on the banks of Loch Lomond. We now have a heater in the van which was fantastic and kept us so cosy, so winter trips are now possible. I foraged some lovely birch bolete mushrooms which I dehydrated to add great flavour to stocks and savoury dishes.
I was meant to be going on a mushroom foraging course with the awesome Mark Williams but sods law, that was the weekend of the storms and gale force winds, so it was cancelled.I was disappointed but I will definitely go next year. That’s the issue with foraging, nature waits for no-one, everything grows and blooms in perfect timing, so if we miss it, we have to wait until next year! But the best things are worth waiting for!
I had a fabulous day out with the Helensburgh hubbers, we had a lovely lunch and a walk and lots of chat. It got me thinking that meetups with other hubbers in your area is such a good idea. That's one of the reasons we ask where you are located when you join our Gathering Space over on Circle. So do consider connecting with other hubbers in your area. I don’t know where everyone lives unless you introduce yourself on our Introductions space,nor do I have the time, to organise these meetups but I will organise a Glasgow one soon.
Alastair and I are off for a week of winter sun to a beautiful finca in the mountains of Gran Canaria, and I can’t wait. A week of relaxing in the sunshine will set me up for the winter.
I have all of my home remedies made, so I am well prepared to have a healthy winter.
Wish you all a cosy, gentle November!
In good health,
Janice xx
