Something magical happens in the early morning hours, even in the dead of winter, when the sun breaks over the horizon, and the world seems to leap with joy at the return of the light. Today we face the sun in the morning and greet the light with exultation.

With the turn of the year comes new visions for the future. We place our hopes in the changing calendar, giving energy to turning year so that it might be better than the previous year. In the past few years, this has taken on special significance for many of us. So today is about hope and newness. What do you want for the new year?

Winter Solstice was last weekend in the northern hemisphere. The nights are long, the days are short and often dark. In the ʞu¡0ɹʞS household, we often light many candles. Not only do they offer hope for the days to come, they offer gentle light and comfort for the moment. So pour a cup of something warm, light a candle or 17, and have an hour of meditation with us.

Mornings this time of year are sometimes crisp and bright, reminding us that the sun will return, bringing new life.

In the dark months, when the leaves have fallen and the world has faded to browns and greys, that’s when the quiet work happens. The trees and plants are resting above ground… but roots deep underground are doing the work of growing, reaching toward new soil and gathering strength for the spring. So, too, should we.

The autumn and winter months are the time to slow down, rest, and recharge before spring. Growth begins underground. Take the time to breathe slowly and move slowly during the cooler months.

The sun feels more distant as autumn stretches on, but it’s still there, a nourishing presence. Today we look to the sun with longing and gratitude, and take refuge in what warm places we can find.

Cypress Rosewood is enjoying family time this morning, so Cup of Calm is taking over the hour. Join RadioSpiral for an hour of live meditation music beginning at 8am Pacific/SLT, with your guest host, ʞu¡0ɹʞS.

As the autumn foliage turns from brilliant reds and golds to brown and falls to the ground, the world begins to take on its winter hues of greys and silvers — a different kind of beauty all its own. Let’s explore the greys of autumn…

In the crisp Autumn morning, pour a cup of something warm, inhale the aroma and let it calm your spirits…