Resolving to rest

What I can and cannot do in January

Making epic changes to my life in January does not feel like the best idea.

For one thing, fall and early winter was an incredibly busy time. I have just made it through not only the holiday season, but the first four months of the school year as a teacher, both of my kids’ birthdays, and all of their extracurriculars. I also like to keep my home in order as much as possible, have fun with my friends, and practice self-care.

There is a general buzzing and fatigued feeling permeating me by the year’s end that I need to tend to.

Also, it is winter. Pretty at times, but cold, dark and inviting me inside more often. What feels most compelling to me right now is a calling to slow down, rest, re-charge, reflect and nourish myself.

I am fortunate that I have enough energy to do what I need to do. But doing even more? Nah, if I can avoid it, I’m good. Tackling grand new goals that I know I do not have the reserves for sets me up for failure. I’ll pass on that this year. I would like to do less not more, and focus on enjoyable habits that give me the feelings that I’m craving.

What are the feelings I most desire right now? Peace. A feeling of ease. Fulfillment. Connection. Groundedness.

For me, what most needs addressing is that low-level anxious feeling that I’m doing too much and yet not enough. There’s often, but not always, a sense of overwhelm and restlessness. I try to pay attention to when I feel that way and when I do not. Then I make a note of it and figure out how to do more of the things that reduce it, and less of the things that amp me up. Seems simple, but in practice it forces changes which can feel uncomfortable.

My gentle ease-into-2025 plan is just getting started, still mostly in the reflection and incubation stage. It takes me more than the week between Christmas and New Year’s to tune in to my wintering instincts and what I need most. I started yesterday by writing a list of what brings me peace and what does not. Here’s my short list on small changes I am considering. I’m not much of an all or nothing gal, so it’s mostly adding in a little this, taking away a little that, and see what develops. Baby steps work better for me, so that change feels manageable. We all have our own way, that’s just mine.

1. I would like to disconnect more often from technology. It is embarrassing to admit, but I check my phone too much. I scroll too much once I’m on it. I’m working on setting limits. So far I ordered an alarm clock to use instead of my phone, that will wake me up with nature sounds and prevent me from looking at my phone immediately when I get up, which can start a whole cycle of scrolling before I’m even out of bed. Any of your input is welcome on this!

2. Following from 1, using time not on technology to do more activities from my list that bring me fulfillment. For me it’s quality time offline with family and friends, reading, writing, de-cluttering, and time in nature (when it’s not too cold!).

3. More nourishing food and drink. I’m going to play with less caffeine and more savory than sugary breakfasts, and see how it goes. My body may still be in shock from all of the Christmas cookies. Also, lots of hearty, healthy winter foods! Cooking is a pleasure for me when I have time. Maybe some of my anxiousness is caused by my eating habits, so I’m exploring that.

4. Doing things with ease. Not forcing changes. Resting (hello sleep), re-charging, and giving myself grace. Since that is the point.

My natural energy starts to rise in early spring, and that’s when I can tackle larger projects or lifestyle changes. That’s when I may embark on learning adventures, create a program or event, and consider home improvements. My energy flow is at it’s peak from early spring through summer. When I’m there, bring it on.

In January, however, I need to be gentle with myself. I try to make small changes in a loving way and take my time. How are you approaching the new year?