Winter is upon us, and we are enveloped in the season. In essence, winter is a time to protect ourselves from external forces. It is symbolic of finding our inner heat and inner passion to fuel us in ways that create the foundation for new things. Tapping into this passion brings us the energy of the sun, especially when it hides behind winter clouds. When we stop creating, we become uninspired. As a result, our mood becomes like the external weather—wet and dreary. 

Oftentimes, we underestimate the power within us to create and rely heavily on external substances to bring us joy. Especially during this season, we look to others to fill our cup, whether it’s with hot chocolate or presents galore. When expectations are imbalanced—that is, when we expect more from others instead of ourselves—mental imbalances begin to proliferate. When these imbalances manifest further, they affect us physically, and we get caught in a cycle. The best way to break this cycle is to dig deep within to find the most precious treasure: our ability to create. Creativity requires perspectives that we often block ourselves from seeing. So this winter, commit to constantly creating things and experiences that are most meaningful to you and those around you. After all, the joy of presence and the warmth of company far surpass material fulfillment. 

But hey, we are human, and we are not perfect. Sometimes we need a little mood booster to help us break cycles of imbalanced energy—and for that, there is Guduchi (Giloy).