Welcome to Angelic Complementary Therapies November 2024 Newsletter

November! I can’t believe I am writing the November newsletter – where on earth did October go? Fred is now hibernating, the clocks have changed, and the evenings appear to arrive so quickly. On top of that, Theo, my eldest son, is no longer a teenager! I still remember the day he was born (20 years ago), feels like it was only a few years ago.

Anyhow, how was your October? Did you go away or do anything special? At least the weather was good for the children who participated in trick or treat. I remember the years I spent walking around our local streets with Theo and Ozzie and the occasions when the weather was very wet, but we persisted.

My October was good. Busy with events, work, studying, spending time with the family and experiencing more of the “50 things…” One of those experiences was Abba Voyage with one of my brothers and my two sisters. It certainly didn’t disappoint, and for those who have thought about maybe going yourself, I encourage you to do so. It was incredible.

Another “experience” was participating in goat yoga with Ozzie’s girlfriend, Hannah. It was such great fun, and we had lots of laughs (although I’m a little bruised now). There wasn’t a great deal of yoga happening, but there was certainly lots of laughter. The goats were so cute, a bit cheeky, but clearly very well loved and looked after.

I’ve also been busy with events, increasing my studies, as well as being a mum... Many exciting ventures are waiting in the wings, including publishing the final book of “The Feather Necklace Series”. And can you believe Christmas is just around the corner! At times like this, I have to stop and remind myself that all we need is now. Now is what is essential. Saying that, I feel inclined to write about looking after yourself as we move into the winter months.

Winter Wellbeing

Winter can sometimes be a challenging time of year for many people, both physically and mentally. Generally, there are more bugs, colds and viruses around, so our health can take a knock. The winter months can make it more challenging to exercise and eat well. It’s the time of year when we’re more inclined to eat comfort food or overindulge.

I have a tortoise, and he needs to hibernate. However, many people also desire to stay indoors and hibernate - lock the world out and the cooler weather. Dare I say it… it’s so important for us to get lots of fresh air, eat wholesome foods and exercise – not just for our physical health but also for our mental wellbeing.

It is proven that we are more likely to let our wellbeing slip in the winter months. With shorter natural light days, colder temperatures, etc, it can be too easy to slip into unhelpful lifestyle choices and neglect our wellbeing. When, in fact, this is the time we need to put in that extra effort to look after ourselves and cultivate healthy habits to stay well.

Here are some useful tips:

· Winter & daylight

We all need daylight to help set our circadian rhythm (our 24-hour internal clock running in the background, initiating sleepiness or alertness). A lack of daylight can make you feel sluggish and tired, particularly if you work indoors for long hours during the day. We often feel brighter in the lighter months due to being outside more.

Take any opportunity to be outside; it doesn’t have to be sunny. Simply being outside in the natural daylight, grounded to the Earth - trust me, you will feel so much better. Don’t let the rain put you off.

· Wash your hands

When Covid was at its height, we all got very good at washing our hands more frequently and well (an odd concept really, because it’s something we should naturally be doing). Washing our hands is particularly important with all the colds, flu, and viruses that are present during the winter months. It’s so easy to touch your face, eyes, and mouth absentmindedly, and that’s one of the quickest ways to catch a bug. I’m not saying that washing your hands will prevent all illnesses, but it’s a very simple way to limit catching more than you need. Our immune system works hard enough as it is without giving it something it has to deal with.

· Healthy foods/healthy gut

We all know the importance of eating well. A healthy, balanced diet leads to a healthy gut. And a healthy gut leads to a much healthier person. I’m not a nutritionist, but I try to look after myself as best as possible. I know what my body likes and what it doesn’t. I try my best to eat a mixed, well-balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables and whole foods – not processed. Try and cut down on sugar, as sugar suppresses the immune system and causes inflammation.

Increase your vitamins, especially Vitamin D, during the winter months. Consider exploring supplements. (It is best to seek professional advice before doing so, especially if you are currently taking medication.)

· Hydration

Keeping well hydrated is super essential any time of the year. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, but less in the evening. Swap regular tea/coffee for a herbal variety without the caffeine. Personally, I love hot water with either a squeeze of lemon or fresh mint—it's so simple and inexpensive, and my body loves it.

· Walking

Walking is not only free, but you can do it anywhere and at any time, with no special or expensive equipment needed. It also boosts your immune system while you get daylight hours AND exercise—it’s a winner. It's even better if you’re able to walk with a buddy! If the cooler weather is putting you off, put on a nice warm coat, and once you get going, you won’t even feel the cold—cooler weather is great for invigorating and stimulating the senses.

· Manage stress

Even that word conjures up that horrible feeling! It is very difficult to eliminate stress from our lives, but where possible, we should try to manage it as best as possible. Stress has been featured in so many people I see in my work recently that I’m drawn to writing a separate blog on this subject where I can explain how and why it happens and the effect it has on our bodies.

We all know stress is bad for our mental and physical health, but it also deflates our immune system, making us more vulnerable to colds and viruses.

If you are feeling run down and overstretched, then it is time to slow down, prioritise and manage what you can do. Take time out for yourself, and don’t feel guilty about it. You’re important, remember that.

· Sleep

A good night’s sleep is one of the best ways to boost our immune system. We all feel better after a good, deep and rejuvenating sleep.

I cannot stress how important a healthy sleep routine is (I covered this in a previous newsletter). In essence, it involves a regular time to sleep and to wake, a cool, dark room (between 16-18 degrees C), and no technology. Finally, it involves a bedroom that you want to go to sleep in, one that is calming and welcoming—a sanctuary.

Quote for the moment

Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does.

William James

Mindfulness

As the darker evenings draw in, how about a bit of mindful watching?

Choose something to watch – a film, a documentary, a comedy, a live sports event – and give it your full attention. Put your mobile/tablet away. Don’t eat or drink. Now is the time to become fully engrossed in what is being played out in front of you. Fully present.

Pay attention to any emotions you may feel. Notice the sensations in your body. Does your body language tell you anything? Do you laugh or tense up at times?

My elder son has taught me this and, at times, is still teaching me (he is studying film production at Uni).

This is a way of being mindful when, at times, we are prone to switching off. Being mindful will give you a more fulfilling experience.

Crystal

Spirit Quartz

I find this crystal magical, almost fairy-like.

Spirit Quartz is known for harmonising energies, quietening overwhelming thoughts and promoting peace within groups and communities. It is a multifaceted crystal that enhances spiritual growth. This crystal is excellent for healing skin issues and amplifying healing treatments. It truly is a beautiful crystal, one you can really lose yourself in.

Angel Card

Blessings and Abundance

The Angel Guide Oracle Deck, Kyle Gray

A light of blessings and abundance is being wrapped around you now and your angels want you to know that they are supporting you. They are encouraging you to trust in your intuition and any other guidance you are receiving at this time, as it will lead you toward tremendous growth and fulfilment. Many blessings are being showered upon your present situation. If you have not received them, know that they will be revealed and shared in the perfect time-space sequence. All the doors to abundance are now being opened to you. Angel Wisdom is encouraging you to begin counting your blessings. Then, you will be open to receiving more of them.

I wonder what this November has in store for each of us. Whatever it brings, may it be fun and peaceful. Maybe think of ways you can have quality time with the people in your life or quality time with yourself. Be present and, as I always say, be kind to all, but mostly yourself. I look forward to seeing you soon, with love and light.