February 2026

This month began with the first two weeks having mainly rain and then followed by a colder but much welcomed brighter days. It felt that nature had concluded its business of the previous year and finally waiting for spring to arrive. Their was a sense of completion, emptiness and knowing with patience that things will start to grow. It is a great time to wander , even though it may be drizzly or cold. Old plants that are remaining have a certain beauty and quality about them , it is like they are the mentors for the new growth. There are trees with their autumn colours still remaining that feel quite mystical and due to the rain , the moss is lush and the lichen vibrant , both of which are expanding their empires to claim more of the woodlands. Predominantly the paths are empty of tourists which allows you alone time just to be in its presence , go first light so you reach the reservoir for the sun rise coming in from Falstone or when its misty and the colours are saturated there is a moody energy just to sit for 10 minutes in quiet contemplation or a hot drink from a flask.

The early plants are beginning to awaken and along the path beside the reservoir are beautiful Gorse bushes with there distinctive yellow flowers illuminating the path, whilst quite sparce now the remaining grass is a wonderful brown and some old plants are not giving up on the remarkable view. A few brambles are being inquisitive and putting out a few green shoots to test the weather and i am sure within three weeks this would of multiplied.

The in-between moments in life , the transitional time between dark and light , sleep and growth is spiritual and magical , our ancestors knew this and was the base of their calendars along with nature itself. If you make your walk mindful , slow and intentional of connecting to the energy you will feel that stillness has anticipation of whats to become when the sun returns.