On one of the last days of 2024, my beautiful daughter texted me and asked, “What are your New Year’s resolutions, Mom”?
So often at the start of new year, I would set lofty resolutions in the hopes that maybe… just maybe, these new resolutions would be accompanied by motivation… and each year I would find myself feeling resigned and defeated within the first few months of the new year ~ so I decided to change things up 😉
For many years now, I have practiced setting intentions rather than resolutions… its probably just semantics, but the word ‘intentions’ feels so much more doable to me than ‘resolutions’.
Life is a dance of cycles, a continuous flow of beginnings and endings; from the changing of the seasons to the phases of the moon. Cycles are nature’s way of reminding us that nothing is static. Whether it’s the gentle ebb and flow of the tides or the vibrant transition from night to day, cycles teach us patience and resilience. By recognizing the natural rhythm in all things, we have the ability to find greater harmony and cultivate a deeper sense of trust in life’s unfolding journey ❤️
Embracing the Wisdom of Nature’s Cycles
Nature’s cycles shape the world around us… Spring brings renewal and growth, summer fosters abundance, autumn teaches letting go, and winter invites rest and introspection. These seasonal shifts are not just external phenomena; they mirror the rhythms of our internal lives.
There is an age-old Hermetic teaching that relates to the mystical and alchemical writings attributed to Hermes Trismegistus in the 3rd century BCE that speaks to this connection between our outer and inner worlds:
‘As above, so below; as without, so within; as the universe so the soul.’
When we consciously align ourselves and our activities with these natural cycles, we tap into a wellspring of energy and purpose.
The Cycles of the Moon
Like the changing of the seasons that our planet and her inhabitants experience over the course of about 365 days as Earth makes her orbit around the sun, the moon offers similar cyclic energies condensed into the span of approximately 30 days as the moon makes her monthly orbit around Earth.
The moon’s phases have long been associated with magic and folklore, and yet, by observing the moon’s phases, we can absolutely harness its energy to enhance our own lives . . . for example:
🌙 Journaling during the New Moon can clarify your goals and aspirations, allowing you to set a clear direction for the month ahead.
🌙 The Waxing Moon’s growing light often provides a boost of motivation, perfect for taking decisive steps forward.
🌙 The Full Moon invites us to celebrate our achievements and express gratitude for the progress made.
🌙 Then, as the moon once again prepares for the reset of the New Moon, a Waning Moon’s energy encourages us to let go of any lingering self-doubts, fears, or unproductive habits, in order to create space for renewal and new beginnings.
Personal Cycles: Growth, Rest, and Renewal
Let’s explore this a little more closely… just as nature has its rhythms, so do we. Our lives are filled with personal cycles, from daily routines to life stages. Recognizing and honoring these cycles can lead to a deeper sense of fulfillment and well-being. When we embrace these patterns, we cultivate self-awareness and foster a lifestyle that supports our unique needs, interests and dreams.
Daily Cycles
The circadian rhythm, our body’s natural clock, governs our sleep/wake cycle and energy levels throughout the day. Aligning with this rhythm can improve productivity and health… for example:
🌀Mornings can be an ideal time for focused work, as often people the most energized in the morning
🌀Afternoons may be better suited for creative tasks or physical activity, as sometimes our energy wanes in the afternoon
🌀Evenings are perfect for winding down and reflecting on the day just finished, in preparation to do it all again ‘tomorrow’.
By listening to our bodies and honoring these natural shifts, rhythms and cycles we can optimize our daily routines and maintain better overall well-being.
Life Stages
From childhood to old age, each stage of life brings its own challenges and rewards. By embracing the unique gifts of each stage, we can find purpose and joy. For example, the curiosity of youth fosters learning and exploration, while the wisdom of later years offers opportunities for mentorship and reflection. Understanding that each phase of life has its own value helps us to navigate transitions with grace and gratitude, recognizing the beauty inherent in every chapter of our journey.
The Role of Mercury Retrograde
Astrological cycles, such as Mercury Retrograde, also influence our lives. This period, when the planet Mercury appears to move backward in the sky, is often associated with miscommunications and technical glitches. However, it’s also a powerful time for introspection and revisiting unfinished business ✨
Instead of dreading Mercury Retrograde, consider it an opportunity to slow down, review your plans, and reconnect with old ideas and creative passions. By reframing this astrological phenomenon, we can approach it with a sense of curiosity and openness, using it as a tool for growth and realignment.
So why are cycles magic?
They’re magic because of their ability to foster self-awareness and bring harmony and flow into our lives. By tuning in to the rhythms of nature, the moon, our life pathway and our own bodies, we can create a life that feels more aligned and purposeful. Embrace the magic of cycles and discover the beauty of living in sync with the world around you.
Practical Tips for Honoring Cycles
💫 Track Natural Cycles: Keep a journal to note seasonal shifts, moon phases, and personal energy patterns. Over time, you’ll notice recurring themes that can guide your actions.
💫 Practice Mindfulness: Spend time in nature to deepen your connection to its rhythms. Observe how the seasons and weather affect your mood and energy.
💫 Plan and Reflect: Use tools like planners and vision boards to align your goals with natural cycles. Reflect regularly to celebrate progress and adjust your course.
💫 Rest Without Guilt: Recognize that rest is an essential part of every cycle. Allow yourself downtime to recharge and prepare for the next phase of growth.
YOU are also Magic 🔮
Science will tell you that your very existence is a miracle, so since you are already a walking miracle, it only makes sense that you are fully capable of harnessing the magic of the world around you... because the magic has always been within! 💜
Love,
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