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In December, The Introspective Pathway

December brims with a distinct vigor, appearing to outpace other months. During this period, the brightness escalates, gatherings multiply, and meetings become more intense: the lights intensify, encounters proliferate, and discussions deepen.

Title Unaltered: December: The Door Inward
Title Unaltered: December: The Door Inward

In December, The Introspective Pathway

December, often known as the most hectic month of the year, can also be a profound time for self-reflection and introspection. Wolfgang Köhler, a renowned German Gestalt psychologist, suggests that the best gift one can give themselves at the end of the year is the ability to close it in peace with themselves.

The fast-paced nature of December, with its increased activity and intensified events, can sometimes lead to exhaustion and disconnection from oneself. The pursuit of external expectations, such as shopping, celebrating, and making plans for the new year, can contribute to this feeling. However, December also serves as a subtle invitation to look inward, connect with oneself, and reflect on personal experiences and needs.

The fear of stopping and facing reality can lead to a preference for staying busy and avoiding introspection. But stopping can provide opportunities for self-reflection, healing, and choosing a path of greater fulfillment. The void that comes from stopping and being still can bring up challenging questions about one's year, actions, and personal growth.

December offers the opportunity to honestly look back on the year, understand and love oneself, and reconcile with personal growth and losses. It is a time to acknowledge what truly matters - being present in one's own life. What people truly long for is not more things, events, or commitments, but moments of honesty with themselves.

In this pursuit of self-connection, various resources are available. The MBSR Association (Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction) offers courses and guided meditation sessions for rest and self-connection amid chaos, including retreats and online live sessions focused on mindfulness and acceptance. Coaches like Olaf Janson, Mette Beckhof, and Lena Rossmann provide support in managing complexity and developing self-responsibility through systemic and team coaching approaches.

Yoga retreats in natural settings, such as those led by Tanja Wolfsgruber in Austria, also offer opportunities for inner balance and mindful self-connection. Culture encourages filling December with messages of perfection for dinner, gifts, and family gatherings. However, it's possible to find balance amidst the chaos.

The collective pressure to comply with external expectations can be overwhelming. But remember, the choice is between running with the world or walking towards oneself, accepting noise or seeking silence, and continuing to accumulate or deciding to let go. This December, take a moment to pause, reflect, and connect with yourself. It's a gift that keeps giving throughout the year.

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