Today is the winter solstice*, the day the sun stands still. From here on the days get longer and, though for those of us in the north it may appear to be a dark and gloomy part of the year, it is actually getting lighter.

The origins of the word ‘solstice’ contain the notion of standing still, as in “I stand still”. Whether you celebrate the solstice or not you might like to consider taking the opportunity to stop and stand still for a moment. It’s a lost art.

* Or the summer one if you are in the southern hemisphere.