:::2020 Intention and Blessings:::

I hope you are settling into the new year. I truly love this part of winter. After the holidays, when our body-mind-spirit are getting back into balance after all the festivities and stimulation. The contrast of bare trees with the green beginning to sprout through the soil reminds me that spring is near. Or that one coral rose that manages to bloom even through the frosted Ojai mornings. Winter and spring are definitely my best seasons. 

I think many of us are entering a place where we have realized that any goals or resolutions we make targeting self-criticism are a thing of the past.  Self-compassion, self-compassion, self-compassion.

The last two years none of my goals have included losing weight or have been exercise related. Last year my focus was on radical self-responsibility, self-love, and devoting myself to my work. Yes, I would like to joyfully move my body more often than I am. Joyful being the key word, and without conditions or attachment to the outcome. 

This year I am excited about the goals I have set for myself and what I’m dreaming up. Everything is related to seva, or service. How can I improve my art so that I can support people more deeply? Much of this comes from having a more established self-practice, which is feeling consistent and good. Cultivating more compassion for myself and others continues to be a theme. 

When we truly dive into self-love and self-care, our ability to support one another is abundant. 

I am a goal oriented person. My desire to improve myself and my life, support others, and go-go-go is abundant. Sometimes I need to stop myself and just remember that I am enough. I am doing great. Now say that to yourself. I am enough. I am doing great.

I think focusing on what is working and nourishes helps us to release what isn’t, or what needs some adjustments. Even though I am a fairly disciplined person, the rebel in me doesn’t like when I go extreme and try to force myself to do things. So, I’m learning to focus on what brings me joy.

Here are some things I love and am looking forward to continuing this winter:

*Chanting every day, even if only for ten minutes. Truly, this is the main thing that helps me drop from an overactive mind to my heart space. 

*My dear friend got me the”Five Minute Journal” and it has supported starting my morning and ending my day with intention. I highly recommend getting this tool. I also love to follow with lighting Japanese incense, doing my gratitude practice (which is included in the journal as well), and having tea.

*Going to bed early (for me). Winter is a great time to give yourself permission to rest. 

*Making soup and nourishing people. I especially love cooking for my husband. We used to have a Sunday waffle tradition and I’m excited to start that again. 

*Walks with my pup to our spot in the river bed. He sniffs around while I make offerings, chant, sing, pray. Sometimes I cry, other times I laugh. It’s one of my favorite rituals.

*Receiving one to two (sometimes three!) healing sessions a week. This is vital for restoring my qi. When I made the commitment to myself last year that I would place monetary priority on receiving, my life changed. Not only did I feel nurtured and restored after receiving, it also helped me draw more clients to my schedule because I was practicing what I preach.

*Making my mental health a priority. Going to therapy, practicing mindfulness, and having a deep gratitude practice seem to support me the most. 

*Having a housekeeper is honestly one of my favorite things I spend my money on. Every time she comes the energy of our home shifts and there is a lightness in the air. This feels like necessary self-care. 

What brings you joy? Do more of that…