The holidays are rich with tradition. New Year’s Eve rolls in each year with silly hats, lots of drinks, the ceremonial Times Square Ball Drop, a weird song no one really knows the meaning of and often a headache by morning. While that’s all fine and good, we are inviting you to take back your New Year’s Eve celebration this year. Find a time, before or after (or instead of) the party to really mark the passage of this year. Maybe take a walk with the intention of reviewing your year and looking forward with fresh perspective, or spend some time in meditation or with a revitalizing yoga practice. Other ideas: Spend the day or part of the day in silence, create community with friends and family by discussing the past year’s successes and intentions for the future, do some special journaling, or write a letter to yourself for next year.
Here is a simple ceremony that you can do alone or with a group to commemorate the passing of the year.
Write down everything you need to leave behind this year: events, people, drama, heartache, hardship, or transitions—anything that no longer serves you. Write each item on a small strip of paper. Spend time in quiet reflection as you do this.
Go somewhere special in nature. The beach is a great place, or your favorite peak or lookout. Your backyard would work fine, too. Bring some sage or charcoal and a fire-safe bowl.
Give yourself time and space to spend in reflection and letting go. When you are ready, burn each strip of paper in your bowl as an offering to your own fantastic future.
