Reflections for a New Year

2023 was a big year for me. It was one of expansion, healing, adventure, creativity, and so much joy. I visited so many amazing places, attended artist residencies, exhibited my artwork, hosted my first yoga retreat, and taught as a yogi-in-residence. I laughed so much with family, old friends, new ones, and strangers who became friends. I loved and felt so loved. The past few years leading up to this one paved the way for me to experience this full bloom. And so it is with immense gratitude that I tasted the sweetness of this year.

The past few years have been one of chronic health issues, starting my own business, moving across the country, completing graduate school, and living through a pandemic that have tested my patience. I dealt with a lot of fatigue, figuring out how to heal, learning how to teach yoga for just myself, and to follow my dreams of being an artist.

There were so many challenges in the past few years, but without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today. It’s only easier to say this now, after having lived through these struggles. Of course, this doesn’t mean that 2023 was without difficulties, as we are always given our own problems to face. Being human means we get to experience both the utmost joy and the most devastating lows, and everything in between.

For me, each year becomes richer and fuller than the last, from a wholehearted devotion to living with gratitude and presence. I look forward to a new year and all that it will bring me. I carry the tools and lessons learned to meet what will arise, while understanding that I can never really know what will greet me. Rather, I open myself to the unknown wonder of each new day.

Happy New Year 🥳

Love,

Catherine