I began writing this post in the summer of 2025, while sitting in my car in the Walmart parking lot. It’s funny how that works sometimes. The undeniable urge to write down something, the pull to put pen to paper.

When I read through the post, I realized that it remains relevant to my life today. Even more so, I think. A lot has changed. I have changed. And after reading a book -about zombies, no less- the author’s notes included a quote that hit a little hard:

“I don’t want to change the world. I want to change my life.”

From the summer of ‘25, I wrote: Something has been changing in me recently. I can feel the shift, the pivot. The desire to restructure and reorganize my life. What a time to find and read that. Not only because of world events, but also for the tremulous events in my personal life. Which leads us here, to this January reverie, a time where I find the first few weeks to be a bit of a paradox.

Society tells us it’s a time to make big changes, for resolutions and a New Year New Me attitude. And, while I do feel that desire for change, my body is still craving my blankets.

And now mid-to-end January has rolled around, the world outside my door is silent and frozen. This is when the gray of winter can start to feel a bit heavy. But, I remind myself that Imbolc is coming. The time of the ‘quickening’, the time when deep down, within ourselves and the frozen earth beneath our feet, is stirring…setting intentions and preparing to sprout, so to speak.

And that’s when I remembered my New Year Theme: To Thrive, Rather than Just Survive.

So, to honor that theme, I am inviting myself (and you) to find strength in the shadows, to honor that quiet stir. We aren’t blooming yet, and that’s okay. We are simply remembering how to rest, dream, and gather our power in the dark while holding onto the light (and the warmth from under our blankets).

My Monthly Intention

Was embodying Lao Tsu’s wisdom:

Let’s stop apologizing for our winter slowness. Let’s view our rest not as a lack of productivity, but as the act of self-love that nourishes our future growth. Sometimes the most productive thing we can do is nothing. Let’s clear the air so we can breathe again.

A Rosemary Simmer Pot

If the air in your home (and your head) feels a bit heavy today, you aren’t alone. Simmer pots are my favorite rituals for a simple and gentle reset. I’ll be using Rosemary—the herb of remembrance and protection—to physically refresh the air and energetically sweep away the “mental clutter” of January and prepare for February.

The Ritual

I like to view simmer pots as a physical act of protection for my home. As the steam rises, imagine it as a fragrant cloud, lifting the gray fog and leaving behind a bright, protective shield.

What You’ll Need:

• 3-4 sprigs of Fresh (or dried) Rosemary: For protection and mental clarity.
• 1 Lemon (sliced): For a burst of solar energy and purification.
• 1 tsp Black Peppercorns: To add a “kick” of protective energy and move stagnant air.
• A splash of Vanilla extract: To bring a sense of “home” and sweetness.

The Process:

1. Place your ingredients in a small pot and cover with water.
2. Before turning on the heat, hold your hands over the pot and whisper: “Clear the air, clear the mind. Leave the winter weight behind.”
3. Bring to a very low simmer (not a boil). Let the aromatic oils fill your kitchen.

Once your simmer pot has been simmering long enough to be fragrant throughout your home, take three deep breaths. Visualize the “Quickening” happening in your own spirit—a slow, steady awakening.

Sealing the Shield

Before heading back into the chaos of the day, take one small moment to breathe.

My favorite way is next to the simmer pot, with a cup of tea in hand (add some infused honey for extra intention!), and taking a deep breath of the rosemary steam.

Either say out loud or think this affirmation: “I am protected. I am clear. I am rooted in the quiet strength of the season.”

Closing

May your tea be hot, your blankets be heavy, your inner light be steady, and your mind stay clear. The light is returning, even if it’s currently hidden in the shadows.

Blessed Be,

Jess.