The Parish Church of St John-at-Hampstead

1/2/2014

Slow down – It’s February

How are your energy levels? February is famous for being the time of year when people most want to hibernate – to sleep, to be left alone, and to do as little as possible. So instead of fighting the winter blues this year, why not go with the natural rhythms of nature? Set aside as much time as you can – to do nothing but rest. It is no coincidence that February is when retreat bookings soar: people want to escape the crowds and renew themselves.

“I think the human spirit is like a daffodil bulb, preparing for the Spring by refreshing its roots, so it can bloom again when the times comes.” So says Stafford Whiteaker, former monk, ex-hermit and editor of The Good Retreat Guide. The Bible makes clear that God blesses our times of rest: ‘In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.’ (Ps 4:8)