Intention vs. Resolution
Resolution is defined as “the act or process of resolving.” This comes from the word solve, which means “to find a solution for.” This implies that there is a problem. There is a finality to this sort of approach, and it is very black and white. You either accomplish it or you do not. This can be very discouraging for many people and can lead to us not sticking to New Year’s resolutions.
Synonyms – mettle, tenacity (not easily pulled apart), stubborn persistence, conclude, decide
The definition of intention is “what one intends to do or bring about; a determination to act in a certain way.” When you intend to do something, it means you have in your mind a purpose or goal to work toward. Intentions are more flexible, open ended, and are all about growth. There is no end conclusion, so there is only potential for continued growth.
Synonyms – aim, calculate, allow, aspire, contemplate, plan
“The power of intention is a critical factor in all areas of life. Simply by intending to create synchronicity in your life, you can nurture that result.” -Deepak Chopra
Why is this a great time to set intentions?
According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), our qi fluctuates with each changing season, just as nature does. Winter is the time of year we find ourselves wanting to curl up in front of the fire while we drink tea and eat soup. This is beneficial for our Qi because winter is the time for hibernation or storing our essential qi before germination occurs in the spring.
Germination is the process in which a seed wakes up from its dormant state; it’s when the potential for growth first sprouts. Seeds are self-contained systems that contain most of what they need to get themselves started. As our bodies reflect nature, we too contain all the potential to grow. We just need to nurture that potential at the right time to inspire the greatest growth.
When we set intentions, we are planting seeds within our mind and body. Winter is a great time to do this because it allows time for those intentions to be stored internally and nurtured. According to TCM, winter is related to the water element, which nurtures wood. Wood is related to springtime, which is when germination occurs, and it is when our intentions will blossom. What seeds do you want to plant for this new year? What do you want to see grow in your life?
Lunar New Year
The traditional Chinese calendar is a lunisolar calendar, which means it is based on astronomical observations of the sun’s position in the sky and the moon’s phases. The lunar new year occurs each year on the second new moon after the winter solstice, which is in December. This year the lunar new year is on February 10th, 2024. Each lunar new year is also associated with a different animal. Last year was the year of the yin water rabbit and this year we are entering the year of the yang wood dragon.
Leaving the Yin Water Rabbit
In Chinese astrology, the rabbit brings a gentle energy into our lives. This means 2023 was a time to slow down, rest, and recharge. The rabbit brought us hope, peace, and harmony, and it encouraged us to focus on what’s important. The yin aspect is associated with the characteristics of water. It runs deep, it nourishes us, and it encourages us to go with the flow. When paired with the water element, it invokes the energy of slow bubbling springs, lakes, and rain. The yin water rabbit asked us to go inward and trust our intuition, keep an open mind, and move from our hearts. It may have been difficult to make firm decisions or set boundaries last year if your water was too fluid, or you may have felt a little stagnant if things felt a little murky for you.
What boundaries did you learn to set?
What areas of your life needed to slow down or recharge?
How did 2023 nourish you?
Letting Go Ceremony
Write down something from the previous year that you want to let go of. Consider the lessons that the yin water rabbit brought into your life, boundaries you struggle with keeping, or habits you would like to change.
Now burn it! Tear it up! Destroy it in whatever way feels right to you!
Inviting the Yang Wood Dragon
The year of the dragon can often bring growth and expansion. It can create opportunities or challenges we need to overcome. The dragon teaches us to be creative and step into our full potential. In yin and yang theory, the yang aspect is associated with the characteristics of fire. It brings energy, movement, and strength. When paired with the wood element, it evokes the energy of Spring, when nature awakens and seeds sprout. Wood is both flexible and firm at the same time, so the wood dragon can also bring strength and stability into your life, while also reminding you to be flexible to new opportunities.
What areas of your life do you want to grow and expand?
How can you foster more creativity in your life?
What seeds are sprouting in 2024?
Writing an Intention
Intention statements are like affirmations. They define your goals and desires, they eliminate ambiguity, and they help you to focus on what you want to manifest in your life. Intention statements are written in the present tense as though it is already happening. When you write them down it engages not only your mind, but your body as well.
Think clearly about what you intend to manifest in 2024. Don’t hold back! You want your statement to be as clear as possible.
Write with positive affirmation. Never write what you don’t want. Only focus on the positive!
Try using positive emotion words throughout your intention. Describe how you want to feel so you can focus on the good feelings of what you want to manifest.
Write it in a way that helps you believe it! When you write something that feels achievable your brain accepts it and can put the wheels in motion to attain it.
Examples:
“I exude beauty, and confidence. I maintain self-love, magnetism, and positive energy.”
“I choose exceptional health for myself each and every day. I progress in the direction of perfect health.”
“I choose peaceful thoughts and relaxed feelings. I am calm and safe. All is well in my world.”
“I remain positive and happy today. I live fully in my own e