As 2024 came to end, I wrote in my journal that 2025 would be a year of new beginnings.
A year of looking inward for answers. A year of self-study and sacred practice. Going inwards to discover what is already here, and what new beginnings are asking to be manifested.
And then things started rapidly evolving in my life, and new beginnings that kinda scare me are on the horizon.
Be careful what you wish for right?
But this is where sacred practice comes in. Because when I start to feel adrift in it all, I know there are ways to take care of myself and teachings to guide my actions. Two of the teachings I’m being mindful to embody right now are Svādhyāyā and Ahimsā from Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras.
The first, Svādhyāyā, is the fourth Niyama, encompassing self-study or inner exploration. The second, Ahimsā, is the first Yama which asks us to practice non-violence in our actions towards others and ourselves.
As I journal each morning, exploring what’s coming up for…
As I journey through my Into the Depths mindfulness meditation training…
As I grow each day as mother and explore how my own childhood shows up…
I know that alongside my self exploration, sacred practices and new beginnings to make space for compassion (hence this newsletter!) in the process.
The practice I’m sharing here is an invitation to embody this for yourself. Through a mindful body scan practice, affirmations and journal prompt at the end. Together these techniques help us mindfully practice Svādhyāyā by studying our own bodies, and Ahimsā through receiving positive affirmations.
I hope this practice serves you in your own practices, explorations and new beginnings. As always, let me know what you think, because your feedback helps me continue to cultivate and grow this space.
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