Ah, the start of a new year – a time brimming with fresh possibilities, grand resolutions, and, let’s face it, a little post-holiday exhaustion. If you're anything like me, December tends to turn into a whirlwind of end-of-year classes, Christmas prep, and juggling life’s endless to-dos. My own practice? Let’s just say it goes on holiday itself, right around the time the Christmas lights come out of storage.
Every year, I find myself needing to begin again. This isn’t about perfection; it’s about recommitment. In yoga and mindfulness, we’re taught that the moment we notice we’ve wandered is the moment we have the opportunity to return. Whether it’s returning to the breath, to presence, or to the mat, we are always invited to start anew.
This year, I’ve made peace with the fact that my life doesn’t always allow for a perfectly structured routine. Between my three daughters, work, the horses, and all the beautiful chaos life brings, I’ve embraced a simpler, more sustainable approach to my practice. My commitment for this year is to show up four days a week - a rhythm that feels achievable and nourishing. These four days will include yoga, meditation, and a sprinkle of Ayurvedic rituals, creating a space to reconnect without feeling overwhelmed. It’s not about rigid expectations or ticking boxes; it’s about carving out time that feels meaningful and supportive amidst the busyness.
And let me tell you, there’s something deeply liberating about letting go of the pressure to do it all. Starting small doesn’t mean you’re doing less - it means you’re creating space to do what truly matters, in a way that works for you.
Practical Tips for a Sustainable Practice
If you’re feeling inspired to begin again this year, here are a few ideas to help you build a practice that feels nourishing rather than overwhelming:
Set Small, Meaningful Goals:
Forget grand gestures. Instead, commit to practices that fit seamlessly into your life. Maybe it’s 10 minutes of meditation in the morning or a single restorative pose before bed. Little steps lead to big shifts over time.
Find Accountability:
Share your intention with a friend, join a community, or sign up for something like my Bloom Into 2025 Challenge (wink, wink). Accountability doesn’t just keep you on track; it makes the journey more fun.
Be Kind to Yourself:
Miss a day? That’s okay. Remember, it’s not about perfection. The real practice is in learning to return with kindness - again and again.
Incorporate Yoga Philosophy:
Practices like "Ahimsa" (non-violence) and "Santosha" (contentment) can be beautiful companions on this journey. Approach your practice with compassion and gratitude for what your body and mind can do today.
Make It Enjoyable:
Light a candle, put on your favorite playlist, or practice outdoors if the weather allows. The more joy you bring into your practice, the more likely you’ll be to return.
A Personal Invitation
If you’re ready to step into the new year with intention, I’d love to support you in your journey. The Bloom Into 2025 Challenge is designed to help you build a sustainable practice with daily movement, mindfulness, and journaling. Think of it as a guided opportunity to explore what it means to begin again, surrounded by a supportive community. And if you can’t join every day? That’s okay, too - start where you are and take what you need. Commit to maybe 4 days a week if thats what works for you, who knows maybe its even just 1 day a week. This is all about being sustainable for you.
So, here’s to beginning again - not with pressure or perfection, but with curiosity and care. May this year’s practice be one that supports, nurtures, and inspires you. See you on the mat (or the meditation cushion) soon! Jess x
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