An Ayurvedic Journey into the New Year

Vedic traditions invite us to transition into the new year and embrace introspection and transformation during this time.

In Ayurveda, winter is considered as a time deep renewal, governed by Kapha and Vata doshas – characterized by the elements of Earth, air, and ether. Calling us to ground ourselves, as we expand into growth. Winter is a time for sleeping, relaxation and retrospection. Often it can seem as winter is kind of isolating, but in isolation there is connection – with ourselves, our true nature and who we really are. Something every wild woman is ignited by.

The slow, retreating nature of winter along with the new year makes it ideal for us to reflect on our life’s journey, to review the past year’s experiences, and to set thoughtful intentions or choose our word for the upcoming year. Ayurveda teaches us to embrace this cycle with mindfulness and gratitude, recognizing each phase of our lives as integral to our growth and evolution.

Something we learn as a wild woman, is to honor the rhythm of nature around us. And while doing so we also learn to honor our own world within us. We open ourselves to the wisdom and healing that the season has to offer, setting a foundation for health, harmony, and happiness in the year to come.

Ayurvedic principles guide us in nurturing our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being during this introspective time as we embrace stillness, celebrate  silence, and awaken renewal within us.

In the Ayurvedic view the changing of the seasons teaches us that everything takes time to manifest into its full form. And that it’s important that we learn to align ourselves with the cycles of the seasons to live more harmoniously with the world around us, and within us.

And thought personally I find that the Chinese new year makes more sense, it’s still important and relevant to learn to live in such ways as we transition from the old year to the new. Ayurveda, practiced every day of the year, invites us to ask ourselves introspective questions that can guide our journey toward a more balanced and fulfilling life:

• Take a deep look at the things that are no longer serving you.
• Identify specific aspects of your life you’re ready to change. This could be anything from daily habits, to relationships or significant life choices. By recognizing these areas, you can start to form a clear path forward. Remember: It’s okay to let go of what no longer contributes positively to your life.
• Spring symbolizes renewal and growth. Think about how can you prepare for the rebirth that spring brings? This might involve cultivating new habits, nurturing your physical and mental health, or setting boundaries in your relationships.

Just as the first flowers of spring don’t appear overnight, the internal transformation doesn’t happen overnight either but is a gradual process of growth and evolution. The way you need to protect, nurture and care for plants over winter, so they can fully bloom in spring and thrive in summer, you need to protect, nurture and care for your soul, body and mind, too at this time.

The Burning Bowl Ceremony is a powerful ritual for letting go of old patterns, fears, or experiences that no longer serve your highest good. It symbolizes the release of past burdens and the embracing of new possibilities.

• Find a quiet, comfortable place. You may want to create a sacred space with items that are meaningful to you.
• Take some time to reflect on what you wish to let go of. This could be anything from negative emotions, unhealthy habits, to limiting beliefs. Write these down on pieces of paper.
• Place your papers in a fire-safe bowl or outdoor fire. Light them, watching as the flames consume your written words. As the paper burns, visualize releasing these aspects of your life.
• As the fire slowly goes out, spend a few moments in meditation, feeling the lightness and space created by letting go.

Embrace this invitation to deepen into the practices of holistic wellness, to explore the dimensions of health and happiness that resonate most with your soul. May you find alignment with your truest self and the rhythms of the natural world.

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