A New Year's Ritual for Release and Renewal

Here’s my favorite New Year’s ritual. It’s my trusted path to release the old and embrace the new.

I invite you to take time this week to reflect on this past year and the changes you want to make going forward. Use this not only to inspire your weight release journey, but for all areas of your life.

I feel empowered when I do this writing exercise, as if I’m calling forth the powers of the Universe to support me. I hope you find it as inspiring as I do.

Get yourself cozy and comfortable with pen and paper. There’s something about writing by hand that keeps you more connected with your heart energy, but if you prefer using your computer or tablet, by all means do so. Give yourself quiet, undisturbed time. Add a cup of soothing tea and a candle to set a reflective mood.

Complete the three parts of this practice in the following order:

1)  Offer Thanks

Write down everything you’re thankful for this past year. I begin with “Dear God”, as if I’m writing a thank you letter to my Higher Power. Let the Universe, or the God of your understanding, know how much you appreciate the gifts you’ve received. This is important because offering thanks honors the giver as well as the gift. Have you noticed how uplifting it is when someone offers you a heartfelt thank you? You want to give more. So it is with the Universe.
The energy of your appreciation brings you more gifts to appreciate.

When you complete your thank you letter, put it aside. Then, move on to step two.

2)  Release

Write down everything you’re ready and willing to release. You may want to release self-sabotaging habits or negative thinking that contribute to overeating. You may want to release a job you outgrew or a draining relationship. Or perhaps you want to release anger and resentment that dampen your spirit.

Whatever you are ready to let go of, write it down.

Now, thank the Universe for the lessons received from these experiences. Take a moment to reflect. How were these experiences vital to your growth? Even if the lessons aren’t yet clear, be open for insights to emerge.

Then, affirm your willingness to let go and then burn or shred that piece of paper. If using an electronic device, delete it.

3)  Set Your Intentions for 2013

On another piece of paper, list your intentions for the New Year. Write down all the experiences, new ways of being and even the things you want to receive in your life by December, 2013.

When possible, begin your list with the words, “I Am”.  For example,

“I am healthy and fit”
“I am fulfilled in my new job.”
“I am in a committed, loving relationship”

“I Am” statements add strength to your intentions because they affirm who you are becoming.

Save your list to review in December, 2013. You’ll be amazed at what you created. Some intentions may no longer feel important. Still others need your patience as you grow into their fulfillment. Add them again to your next year’s list.

What do you want to create in 2013?
Begin the creation process now by posting your comments below!