The Big Resolution: 365 Days Inside a Cocoon

A new year. A new resolution. A fresh start. The year 2020 was less than perfect and an eye-opening experience for everyone. Change is on-going and constant. Even though it is uncertain what lies ahead, 2021 must be insightful and special in its own way. The New Year has always been shrouded in cultural tradition, goal setting, and future aspirations. In Latin solvere, the word resolution means to loosen or break into parts. This is the first step to solving a problem or achieving a goal.

My goal for 2021 and beyond is to be well and whole. My body has changed tremendously as well as my mental perception of the world around me. How can I maximize my overall health? Since I am at home more, I took the initiative to put greater effort into my diet, but what about my mental health? It is a bummer not being able to travel like I once did, but every cloud has a silver lining. My current space is a nod to mother nature herself. THERE ARE PLANTS EVERYWHERE! My green babies are hanging from the ceiling, sun-bathing in the window, and hanging out on the steps. The kitchen, however, is the most therapeutic place in my home and it exudes coffee house vibes on a Saturday morning. My green babies and I are soothed by the melodious vibrations of Jazz and the ambrosial scent of curried vegetables.

I also decided to embark on the journey of minimalism. I was extremely wasteful at one point and time. This year everything in my home will have to have an intention. I will no longer hold onto things I do not need. Most of what I use will have to be repurposed or recycled. My children are also excited about the lifestyle change. They love saving toilet paper rolls and turning them into kaleidoscopes! Saving our vegetable and fruit scraps provide us with free seeds. Not only am I saving money, but I have a never-ending supply of herbs, fruit, and vegetables. I even took it a step further by canning and dehydrating my food!

The pandemic has been life-altering but positive in ways I had not anticipated. It has taught me to be content with not being able to travel or socialize how I once did. Traveling is a beautiful experience, but in the past, it was merely a means of escape. When it was time for me to go back home, there was emptiness. Taking control of my life and health has reduced so much stress. Since I have made new lifestyle choices, it is easier to sit with myself and merely exist without confusion.

Nature has also contributed to my newfound happiness. Hiking liberates me from the rat race and mountain of expectations. Nature gives unselfishly and does not require anything from me. She has been the subject of all my screams and deepest frustration. Instead, I get a harmonious song from the birds and insects in return. When there is water nearby, its smell and flow are therapeutic for me.

Journaling has saved me in so many ways too. Whether I am sipping tea on a couch or next to a creek, my journal and pen are always ready and willing to process my thoughts. Writing my goals and aspirations down help to put them into perspective. I will no longer let my negative thoughts corrode my mind. It is my choice to either write them down or stay on a hamster wheel. Most of my thoughts are productive, while others are projected fears. None of which are happening. Journaling has not only helped to improve my mental clarity but track my personal progress. It is like a time capsule of sorts.

This year has given me a creative spark and a willingness to try new things! Painting and yoga are two things I have always wanted to do more often, but I never felt good at it. This time I am leaving my expectations at the door and giving it another try. Practicing mindfulness in combination with art exploration is the icing on the cake. I strive for long term transformation that is not only visible now but in generations to come. True wellness is about balance. What steps are you taking to create a healthier you this year?