Informative Articles

Ellyson has recently accepted the opportunity to publish monthly newsletters for the McNary Estates newsletter page, located in Keizer, Oregon. These newsletters are centered around seasonal shifts and mindfulness. They are published monthly, and will be uploaded on this page as well.

MARCH 2026-

As March approaches, we can appreciate the sun a bit more than the month before. We are beginning to see more light in our days, and we can feel subtle shifts happening around us. This month is about noticing the gentle bloom of spring being called into fruition. We may start to see our own seeds sprouting as well. This can be physical—new flowers and plants beginning to show themselves again—and it can also be metaphorical, as we slowly emerge from our cocoon.

Now is a great time to reflect on the winter season. To take note of how our bodies have felt so far in the year 2026, and to appreciate how far we have come in the years prior. If we are able to witness the new sprouts of nature around us, we are also being given the opportunity to observe the growth within ourselves. During January and February, we discussed tips and tools to help this seasonal shift flow more smoothly. Now, it is an important time to be mindful of what seeds we are planting each day through our diet, lifestyle, and the habits we have created thus far.

An interesting way to understand yourself during this time is by describing yourself through the different qualities of nature. By doing so, you can become more mindful of where you are currently at with your well-being. If you begin to notice imbalances within the body or mind, you can then work to counterbalance these qualities in order to realign yourself. One simple example of observing the qualities of nature within yourself can be seen through the skin. Is the skin dry and cracked? Is it well hydrated and moist? Or perhaps a little bit of both? By observing your physical body in this way, you can incorporate supportive tools into your day-to-day life to help alleviate or rebalance any discomforts that may be present.

There are twenty qualities of nature that can be directly observed in both the body and the mind. We are deeply connected to the environment around us; therefore, if we think about this through the lens of our five senses, we can see that everything we expose ourselves to has an effect on us—physically, mentally, or often both. The food we eat, the smells around us, what we watch and see, what we listen to, and what we touch each day all truly matter. For example, if we eat ice cream every day, we may begin to feel heavier in the body or mind. On the other end of the spectrum, if we only eat salads and popcorn, we might feel more airy and light. I want to emphasize that none of these choices are inherently “right or wrong,” or “good or bad.” Rather, by understanding how certain inputs make us feel, we can learn what is harmonious for us in the present moment and what may not be the best choice right now.

A helpful example of this can be seen with spicy foods. I don’t know about you, but I love hot sauce, jalapeños, and all things spicy. With that being said, if I am experiencing heartburn in the midst of summer heat, it is probably not the most supportive choice for me to continue eating very spicy foods. Of course, everyone is different—one person may do very well with hot foods, while another may not. This is why observing and understanding yourself in relation to nature and your environment is such a valuable tool.

This month, I challenge you to observe your body a bit more closely. Hydrate yourself from the inside, and also nourish your skin from the outside with warm oil. During this time, the body may still be carrying some of the coolness or dryness from winter. Gentle movement, such as a brisk walk to get your heart rate up, warming the skin with oil, or sipping on warming herbs can all help support the transition from the cold season into the warmer months ahead.

As always, have grace with yourself and meet yourself where you are. I’m rooting for you.

FEBRUARY 2026-

February in Oregon often feels like a gentle pause between seasons. Winter is still present, yet there are subtle signs of movement—slightly longer days, more light between the rain, and a quiet sense that change is beginning. Rather than rushing forward, this month invites us to notice small shifts, both around us and within.

As daylight slowly increases, the body begins to respond. Energy that was focused inward during mid-winter starts to awaken, though not always consistently. Some days may feel lighter, while others still call for rest. This natural back-and-forth is part of late winter, and the overall well-being of the body can benefit from patience and flexibility during this transition.

Nutritionally, February often calls for a middle ground. Warm, cooked meals remain supportive, but slightly lighter foods may feel more aligned at this time. Soups with more greens, smaller portions of grains, and meals that are warming without being too heavy can help support steadier energy. Consistent meal times, simple preparation, and well-cooked foods continue to support digestion and emotional steadiness.

Emotionally, February can bring a quiet desire for movement and connection. Short walks, light stretching, or maintaining familiar routines can help keep energy flowing. Structure remains helpful, but flexibility becomes equally important as the body prepares for gradual change.

Many wellness traditions view late winter as a time to gently lighten routines while maintaining warmth and stability. Even small adjustments in food, movement, and daily rhythm can help align the body with the season.

A simple winter-to-spring tip:
Sip on warm tea in the morning made with ginger, cinnamon, fennel, chamomile, or tulsi (holy basil). We can also try adding gentle spices like turmeric, clove, or cardamom to meals. Herbs like these can help to support digestion, circulation, and mood as winter begins to shift.

As February unfolds, I want you to consider approaching health with patience and curiosity this month. Choosing foods that feel warming yet energizing, and taking note of how the body feels after eating certain foods. While we honor emotional fluctuations during this time, we can relate to the transition of the seasons as we bring more light into our day.

JANUARY 2026 -

January in Oregon has its own quiet rhythm. The days are shorter, the air is cooler, and life naturally moves at a slower pace. Over the years, I’ve come to approach this season not as something to endure, but as an invitation to be more intentional with my days. You may notice the same—needing more warmth, more rest, and craving meals that feel familiar and comforting.

Our bodies are remarkably intelligent; therefore, we naturally respond to the seasons and climates around us. In winter, with less daylight and cooler temperatures, it’s natural for our energy to become reclusive– our appetite often shifts, digestion may slow slightly, and many of us feel our best when the days have a steady, predictable flow. These changes aren’t problems to fix—they’re signals guiding us towards balance.

During January, I find that warm, home-cooked meals are especially supportive. Soups, stews, roasted vegetables, and whole grains are not only easier to digest, but deeply satisfying. There’s a simple pleasure in sitting down to a warm meal when it’s cold outside, and that sense of nourishment can be felt not only within the body, but also the mind.

Digestion plays an important role in how we feel each day, both physically and emotionally. When meals are warm, eaten at regular times, and enjoyed without rushing, the body tends to feel more settled. Energy levels become steadier, and mood often follows. In winter, maintaining these gentle routines can help support strength, clarity, and overall wellbeing.

This season also offers an opportunity to create warmth through daily routine. A nourishing breakfast, a consistent evening meal, or a quiet cup of tea can become a valuable tool for steadiness. These simple habits bring structure and ease, especially during a time of year that naturally encourages reflection and calm.

Rather than pushing ourselves to match the pace of the brighter seasons, winter allows us to simplify. Health in January isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what feels sustainable for you at this time. Choosing foods and routines that offer warmth, consistency, and ease helps the body stay resilient through the colder months.

Many long-standing wellness traditions recognize winter as a time for grounding foods and steady rhythms. Even within the demands of modern life, honoring the season in small ways can support vitality and comfort. These practices help us move through winter feeling nourished, rather than depleted.

As January unfolds, I invite you to approach nutrition and daily routines as forms of quiet self-care. By aligning with the natural rhythm of Oregon’s weather, we can support our bodies with confidence, steadiness, and warmth—setting a strong foundation for the months ahead.

Winter Wellness Tip:

Try sipping on ginger, cinnamon, fennel, chamomile, or tulsi tea–or, adding warming spices like turmeric and cardamom to your meals. Small daily touches of these familiar herbs can help you feel steady, nourished, and cozy throughout Oregon’s cold months.