Happy New Year from charming Assisi!
Many of us are in “fresh start” mode at this time of year, but why waste time splitting hairs about whether you prefer “intentions” over “resolutions”?
Not only are they synonymous, they both really only work when supported by small but regular steps forward.
I’m in Assisi for a retreat exploring where Vedanta meets Christian mysticism with Swami Atmananda of Rishikesh, whom some of you will remember from his many visits to my home and yoga studio since 2007.
It’s a lovely way to start the year, with good food, good company, and quiet contemplation to support new beginnings.
It’s the nature of the mind to resist big changes unless there is a strong emotional connection to the desired outcome, so if you haven’t found your emotional driver, make gradual changes that you can add on to what you are already doing.
And for the best results when you want to change something in your life, work with the energy of nature!
Use the lunar cycles to initiate change – they are a more useful reference than a random calendar day.
The Moon changes according to its interaction with the Sun. The image we see of the Moon is a reflection of its energetic relationship with the source of life.
So when the Moon is full the energy on Earth is high, as we can see in the ocean tides.
This picture of Assisi last night actually shows a crescent Moon 🌙 but it’s so blurry it almost looks like the Moon is full!
For example, if you want to start something new or build something up (like muscle mass or body weight), begin after the New Moon and build towards the Full Moon.
If you want to stop doing something or to shed weight, start after the Full Moon and let its waning phase support you 🌕
This is why I start most of my courses and projects at specific points in the lunar cycle, like the upcoming short Ayurvedic Home Cleanse starting at the Full Moon on January 18th!
Working with the waning moon helps us shed some holiday excess, whether it be weight or bad habits.
At the New Moon on February 1st, we will start the next 28-day Home Cleanse to completely reset digestion, improve energy and mood, and boost immunity just as the seasonal changes make us most vulnerable.
Click here to find out more about the upcoming Ayurvedic Home Cleanses.
To your very best health in 2022!
Love Susan