“I am creating peace within myself”
- My primary Sankalpa (Courtesy of Ally Boothroyd)
I celebrated my 43rd birthday on Wednesday, December 18th.
People have always assumed that it sucks to have a birthday so close to Christmas, but I can assure you it does not. The world feels festive this time of year. No matter where you go or what you do, the celebratory vibe is everywhere. My birthday is never underwhelming, that’s for sure.
This year, I spent the day reflecting on what it means to have a birthday nestled into such an auspicious time. More than ever, the day felt like a bonus, just the first in a string of opportunities to reflect on the end of a wild year and the new beginnings that are already sprouting from the (somewhat scorched) soil of my life.
Yesterday, those of us living in the Northern Hemisphere observed the Winter Solstice. In just nine days, we’ll close the chapter on 2024, bidding farewell to another year—one that a lot of us will be glad to leave behind.
We’ve passed through the darkest night, yet the returning light remains imperceptible. The year is essentially over, but the new one hasn’t officially begun.
In this in-between moment, we find ourselves living in a liminal space.
In moments like these, we trust that renewal will come. With the Solstice or New Years, it’s easy—we’ve experienced these transitions many times. But what about the more personal liminal spaces we enter? The ones shaped by loss, like death, divorce, or serious illness? Even joyful milestones, like graduation or retirement, can thrust us into the discomfort of the unknown.
When we find ourselves in times of uncertainty, we need a guiding light.
The concept of guiding light is a universal symbol, resonating across cultures and religions. In Christianity, the Star of Bethlehem is said to have led three wise men to the stable where Jesus was born. In yogic philosophy, Atman—the soul—is considered an inner guiding light, leading individuals toward enlightenment.
The North Star is another iconic guiding light. Throughout history, civilizations have relied on the North Star for navigation, due to its reliability and fixed location in the sky. The Lakota people call the North Star “The star that stays in one place”.
My North Star is peace. From the liminal space I currently inhabit, it is one of the few things I see clearly. I don’t know what my future holds, but the promise of peace beckons me forward. I take each step as it is illuminated, feeling peace quietly take root and grow within me
Guided by this inner light, I am learning to embrace the uncertainty of the in-between times. Moments of acceptance, forgiveness, gratitude, and grace become milestones along the way, reminding me that even without knowing my exact destination, I am moving in the right direction.
Christmas Yoga - A Calming Flow For The Busiest Time of Year | Amala Movement
22 Minutes | All Levels | Beginner Friendly
I know not everyone celebrates Christmas, but I imagine most of us are busy. And I know we can all use a a little more calm in our lives.
Like every class I’ve tried from Amala, this one was a soothing gem. I practiced it first thing in the morning, and the entire sequence felt incredible. I hope you carve out a little time to try it soon—you won’t regret it!
Yoga Nidra for Calm and Peace | Ally Boothroyd
53 Minutes | All Levels | Beginner Friendly
I’ve returned to this practice time and over again. It truly is a practice for calm and peace. I love how Ally’s guidance creates space to connect with what brings each of us comfort on a deeply personal level. For me, it’s the memory of simple pleasures—a favorite seasonal song and the warm aroma of spiced tea. Give yourself a moment to pause with this relaxing Nidra and see what comforts surface for you!
Thank you for your continued support! I appreciate all of you so very much.
May your week be filled with comfort, joy, love and peace.
See you next Sunday.
Thank you for this, truly.