Here we are at the transition – fall into winter, heading into a new year. How was your year? Did you get some time away? Did you have time to reflect – time to step back and think about your life and work, your projects, relationships, or your health?
Jennifer Porter, of the Harvard Business Review says, “Reflection gives the brain an opportunity to pause amidst the chaos, untangle and sort through observations and experiences, consider multiple possible interpretations, and create meaning. This meaning becomes learning, which can then inform future mindsets and actions.”
This can be especially important for those in a healing process. Slowing down to reflect can allow you to hear messages the body is trying to send you. Or perhaps it allows you the space to understand an old emotional wound that hasn’t healed. It can help you hear your intuition.
If you didn’t get time to reflect this year, you can still create that opportunity. Look for activities that calm you down and soothe your nervous system. Maybe it’s a walk in the woods, journaling, a hot bath or just sitting quietly with a cup of tea. If you can, take yourself to an environment outside your beaten path (think Korean bath house).
We’re coming into the birth of a new year. Perhaps some reflection will help you clarify a goal or intention for this new season. Would you like to use this new year to focus energy toward something new in particular? Maybe learn something new, like meditation, or get to that back-burnered project? Or maybe just set an intention to cultivate more peace in your heart? Take time to reflect on your heart’s desire.
Be well and enjoy the finals days of 2018 and best wishes in the new year!
Written by Michelle Stortz
