As winter loosens its grip and the first signs of green begin to appear, many of us feel a subtle shift within. Energy stirs. Breath feels a little fuller. The world seems to spring to life around us, quietly inviting us to do the same.
For St. Hildegard of Bingen, this greening power that brings life into the world is a potent force that she called viriditas, a divine, life-giving force that flows through all of creation. Viriditas is the vitality that makes plants rise from the soil, the freshness that returns after dormancy, and the same force that nourishes growth within the human soul.
When we observe nature, we can see that nothing blooms before its time. Seeds remain hidden until conditions are right. Shoots emerge slowly, responding to warmth, moisture, and light as spring arrives.
Modern culture often equates spring with productivity. New activities, new plans, and new expectations. Instead, I invite you to try a quieter approach. Similar to nature, allow your energy to unfold in its own time this spring.
Take a moment to attend to what is stirring within you. You might ask yourself:
- Where do I feel a natural sense of curiosity right now?
- What feels enlivening this spring?
- What is calling to me this season?
Your answers might be whispers at first. Maybe a renewed desire to walk outdoors, to plant some seeds, or to simplify your schedule.
This is the power of viriditas bubbling up within you, steady and nourishing.
Taking time to be present in this way will help life to flow more freely. You’ll become more aware and responsive, trusting in your own timing.
Here are a few ways you can tune into the power of viriditas this spring:
- Notice green.
As you walk or look out a window, notice where the color green appears where there once was brown.
- Take a walk outside.
Walk outside and breathe in the fresh air of spring. Notice the flowers as they emerge from the ground. Listen for the birds singing in the branches of the trees.
- Nourish with fresh foods.
Nourish your body with the fresh foods that grow in the spring – leafy greens, carrots, strawberries and herbs.
As spring unfolds, become aware of the living force that guides the leaves to unfurl and flowers to bloom. Live in harmony with this greening power and you’ll experience that vitality will arise naturally for you.
