I don't know about you, but as I've got a bit older, the prospect of being outside, past midnight, in December, in a glittery outfit and full face of makeup has become somewhat unappealing. I love the odd night out, but I'm in a stage of my life where I have enough experience under my belt to feel I'm not missing out if I don't join in, and so much ahead of me to be excited by at the same time.
As the New Year is approaching at what feels far too quickly in these tired Twixmas days, I thought I'd share a new tradition I've become increasingly fond of. Instead of freezing myself for hours outside waiting for the fireworks, paying upwards of £7 per drink, and starting the New Year with a groggy head, I'm instead cosy, warm, and wrapped at home, in a tidy environment, enjoying my New Year ritual of visualisation and manifestation...
During the last day of the year, I like to have a big old clear up, around the house. Declutter all the Christmas and know I'm starting the New Year with a fresh home. Blast the windows open to let in the fresh air, clean out the fridge of old leftovers and restock with hearty new comfort foods, tidy and vacuum my space, get back to the abandoned laundry load and get some fresh sheets on the bed. Knowing I'm going to wake up in a New Year with a fresh home feels so comforting to me.
The Ritual
1: Create a Comfortable Space
The first step in this New Year's Eve tradition is to create a cosy and comfortable space. Light some candles, play soft music, and gather blankets and pillows to make your environment warm and snug. Creating a comfortable space is essential for fostering a sense of relaxation and creativity.
2: Reflect on the Past Year
Before diving into the future, take some time to reflect on the past year. What were your achievements, challenges, and lessons learned in 2023? Consider jotting down key points in a journal to help you gain clarity on where you currently stand in your life journey.
3: Set Clear Intentions
Now that you've cleared your mind, start setting clear intentions for the upcoming year. What are your personal and professional goals? Use the Wheel of Life tool to establish where you're at and where you'd like everything to be. Be specific about what you want to achieve, and consider breaking down larger goals into smaller, more manageable steps. Whether it's career advancements, personal development, or health and wellness, having a clear roadmap will guide you throughout the year.
4: Create a Vision Board
Visualising your goals can be a powerful motivator. Gather magazines, scissors, glue, and a large board or paper to create a vision board. Cut out images, quotes, and words that resonate with your aspirations for the year. Alternatively, use a Pinterest board to select images that fit most with the aesthetic, desires and mood you want to bring into the New Year. Arrange them on your board in a way that reflects the various aspects of your life you wish to focus on. The visual representation of your goals will serve as a daily reminder of what you're working towards.
5: Dream Big, but Be Realistic
While it's essential to dream big and push boundaries, it's equally important to set realistic goals. Consider what is achievable within the constraints of your current situation and resources. Striking a balance between excitement and realism will increase the likelihood of staying committed to your goals throughout the year.
You can still pop a bottle of fizz, have a big smooch and watch the fireworks light up the sky - it's all about balance!
Follow up with a nourishing New Years Day
Start your year right with some happy, healthy choices that enhance your wellbeing from the get-go. Living by the coast gives me the perfect opportunity to embrace the elements, connect with nature, but any green or blue space will allow the same. Here's what I love to do:
A revitalising sea swim There's nothing quite like throwing yourself in the freezing cold sea at any time of year. Cold water swimming is good for improving circulation, enhancing your immune system and metabolism, enhanced mood and mental wellbeing, reduced stress and better sleep. What better way to ring in a fresh, healthy New Year than a salty sea dip?
A beach or coastal walk Sometimes the weather doesn't allow a swim, but our tradition has always been a stroll along the sand to blow away the cobwebs (whatever the weather!)
A hearty meal A comforting stew or ravenous roast dinner allow you to feel full, calm, and nourished in the New Year.
A manifestation meditation All the wonderful things you envision for yourself in the coming year are all possible - and you're worthy of everything you want. Raising your vibration, and aligning your energy with everything you want is the ultimate way to achieve everything you want this year. I've found this fabulous meditation (free to access on YouTube) that leaves you smiling, positive and encouraged.
Embracing the tradition of visualising and mood-boarding on New Year's Eve can set a positive and intentional tone for the coming year. By creating a cozy environment, reflecting on the past, setting clear intentions, and visualising your goals, you'll be better equipped to turn your dreams into reality. Starting the New Year on a high sets a wonderful tone for a healthy, happy and fruitful 2024.
Here's to a year filled with growth, accomplishment, and joy!
