What’s Old is New … Again
So … here’s my full new year’s disclosure. I have not yet put down social media 100%. I admit - I check people out the odd time. And what i’m reading (and reading into) is that there is a whole new way of entering the new year that feels … kinda different. And, kinda good.
In past years, the narrative always suggests we should burst forth with unyielding energy, a list of resolutions, and a relentless drive for self-improvement. So the gyms will be packed (for a few weeks anyway), certain friends will be doing ‘dry january’ (ok … fine. It’s never a bad idea to give our bodies that break) and many of us will be tackling unfinished tasks with vigor. However, what if we were to chose a different approach? Instead of the traditional hustle and grind, we could step into the new year with a gentler mindset—one that invites us to listen to our bodies, our surroundings, and ourselves.
What if we could pause, reflect, and nurture? Rather than push and drive.
This is what i’m seeing as the choice being made by people in real-time.
Listening to our bodies is an invaluable practice that often gets drowned out by the noise of societal expectations. What if we tuned in to what our bodies are communicating - or put another way, what our bodies are REALLY NEEDING? Perhaps it’s craving more rest rather than intense workouts or truly nourishing ourselves rather than restricting calories…or not eating at all. By paying attention to our energy levels, emotional states, and physical sensations, we could cultivate a deeper understanding of our needs and desires, allowing us to honour our unique rhythms while moving into the new year.
And I mean, moving into the new year.
I can’t ignore the fact that while I totally buy into all of the movement, mindfullness and meditation “stuff”, that just isn’t going to be enough for me. I’m still that person who craves a connection with my community and the world. Sure, things really do look a lot different these days, but I find myself drawn to the news to see what’s happening only to be left feeling off. So, I’m getting better at paying attention to how i’m feeling, and if I feel less than good doing something - well, then i’m going to do less of that thing. On the positive side, it’s made me really take time to reflect on what truly inspires and grounds me. Nature, art, and my community always, always come out on top.
I love taking walks with my four-legged buddy while diving into a gripping true crime podcast (still can’t get enough!). Engaging with music is another passion I completely and wholeheartedly prioritize. And nurturing my connections with others—whether through deep conversations or shared experiences—really fills my cup. But I’ve come to know that these interactions aren’t just about connection for me; they’re about cultivating gratitude and joy in my life.
So, as we step into this new year with a softer approach, it's worth considering daily practices that we love and paying more attention to the stuff that makes us feel good. I’ve tried journalling many times and it just won’t stick … yet. Maybe 2026 will be my year to write :) Honestly, for me - it’s the smaller things, like savoring a cup of tea or taking a few deep breaths, that remind me to stop and just BE.
I’m entering the new year not with a list of demands but with openness and curiosity about what this year will bring, creating space for growth that feels authentic and nourishing. And very, very personal.