New Year's Day: The Traditional Start of the New Year?
New Year’s Day on January 1 is rooted in the Gregorian calendar, introduced by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582.
It became a globally accepted tradition, replacing earlier calendars like the Julian calendar. Many cultures and religions, such as the Chinese, Islamic, and Jewish traditions, have their own new year dates.
Earth based wisdom tells us that the Spring Equinox in March is the start of a New Year - symbolising renewal and rebirth in nature and ourselves, marking longer days and new growth.
Ancient civilizations, such as the Persians, celebrated Nowruz, the Persian New Year, during the Equinox.
This natural alignment reflects the start of the agricultural cycle, making it a logical time for renewal.
Symbolism of the New Year
Renewal: Letting go of the past and welcoming new beginnings.
Hope: A fresh start to look towards goals, dreams, and aspirations.
Reflection: Time to evaluate the past year and set intentions for the future.
"New Year, New Me"
A phrase, and a concept I absolutely cannot stand, and we do not support at Yoga Borne!
There is a lot of talk at this time of year of bettering ourselves, and being a new version of ourselves. This can really perpetuate the idea that who we are right now is not enough - which is not true.
How can we avoid the superficiality of “New Year, New Me?”
Set realistic goals: Focus on small, achievable habits rather than drastic changes.
Practice consistency: Progress over perfection.
Focus on growth, not reinvention: Embrace who you are and build on existing strengths.
Be kind to yourself: Change is a process, not a one-day event.
Affirmations for the New Year
1. "I welcome growth and new opportunities with an open heart."
2. "I release what no longer serves me and embrace what nourishes me."
3. "I am capable of achieving my goals, one step at a time."
4. "Each day is a fresh start to create the life I desire."
5. "I am resilient, resourceful, and ready for the year ahead."
Our Yoga practice is always there to support us, whether that be through Asana (the shapes), breathing practices, mindfulness, mantra - and so much more!
Yoga Asana for the New Year might be shapes such as:
1. Mountain Pose (Tadasana): For grounding and focus.
2. Child’s Pose (Balasana): To reflect and set intentions.
3. Warrior I (Virabhadrasana I): To embrace courage and strength for new challenges.
4. Tree Pose (Vrikshasana): For balance and renewal.
5. Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana): To stretch and release what holds you back.
Journal Through January
A wonderful way to reflect is through journaling.
In 2024 we offered you “Journal Through January” - a whole month of FREE journaling ideas.
Head over to Yoga Borne YouTube by clicking here and scroll to January 2024 to take a look!
You will also find some New Year journaling prompts over on the YouTube channel, plus some Savadhyaya (Self Study) journaling prompts coming up on the first week of January.
A Joyful January with Yoga Borne
We have SO MUCH GOOD STUFF coming up to support your wellbeing in 2025!
More classes, workshops and experiences including 2 courses.
Collaborations with The Girls Club Brum bringing you Women’s Only Yoga, and Claire Shayle “A Little Self Claire” bringing Movement is Medicine and Soundscape to Yoga Borne.
Take a look at the website shop by clicking here!
Happy New Year!
We wish you a year filled with health, happiness, and whatever your heart desires…
