If you’re on social media, you may have heard of the “winter arc” challenge at some point over the past week or two. Essentially, it’s a social trend where people are encouraged to start their “new year, new me” makeovers right now, in October, and lean into self-care and discipline during this last quarter with ambitions to emerge in 2025 already glowing. Personally, as someone who follows a lot of people in the wellness and self-development space, I feel like I have been lambasted by this trend. All of the wellness influencers are jumping on it, talking about their winter arc plans—get enough sleep, daily movement, eat clean, start a side hustle, etc. You might be surprised, but I’m just not that into this.

Something about the energy of this trend turns me off. As you know, I am *all about* self-improvement, being consistent with healthy habits, and continuously evolving into a better version of Self. I practice this all year round, no trend required. (And I believe we all should, to some degree.) Now, all of a sudden, to see so many people jump on a trend to ‘be your best self” in these last 90 days of the year (most likely in an effort to gain followers)is off putting, perhaps because it is inauthentic.

It also feels energetically off to me because these cold weather months are a time to slow down and look inward. This is a time to take care of yourself without pushing. To tap into your intuition. To be contemplative, to reflect on your year, and nourish your yin—embody the feminine energy of allowing, receiving, and simply being. (And yes, the guys can do this, too). Winter arc energy is very masculine, focused on doing. It also feels forced versus focused on discovering what your soul actually needs and wants.

And finally, quite frankly, we are on the verge of the holiday season, a time of year that competes with that slow, soft, inward space of being mentioned above. As a mom during this time of year, who already is consistent with her practice of becoming her best self, who craves the stillness and retreat, and who also wants to make it the most wonderful time of the year for her family—adding the pressure of the “winter arc” glow-up just feels like a freakin’ lot!!

Consider this your permission slip to not put so much pressure on yourself. (I know I need that reminder!) Give yourself grace, embrace the slow down and the stillness, and in doing that, I promise you, you will glow.