How I'm Easing Into 2021
Notice What Feels Exciting
At the end of my December retreat, I hosted a full moon gathering on Zoom. It was fun and magical.
I led the group through a guided meditation. Breathing together, we let go of what wasn't serving us and welcomed in new energy. We were all alone in our own homes, but also together in a collective energetic space.
Then, I shared a quote by Elizabeth Gilbert about manifesting blessings. I offered ideas on how we might embody her words with ease in the new year.
I pulled a 3-card spread. Each one for wisdom from intuition, one for wisdom from our guides, and one for wisdom from the universe. The cards were completely aligned. As I read the messages, I felt goosebumps tingling. Each one resonated in the most magical, perfect way.
To finish the call, I invited anyone who wanted to speak to the group. We savored the stories, wise words, and takeaways that were shared.
As the gathering ended, there was a gentle bubbling of excitement within my body. A desire to "come back here." I knew there would be another full moon gathering soon.
Appreciate What Feels Easy
For much of my life, I've had the mentality that I had to work hard. I thought there had to be a certain difficult edge to life if I wanted to do well, succeed, and achieve my goals.
This belief has started to unravel. I have been appreciating what feels easy. I've been breathing more. Doing less. Being gentle with myself. Dropping expectations and enjoying this journey called life.
I still do a lot and from the outside, my actions might not appear all that different. But internally, there is a tender ease flowing. Acceptance. Allowing. Peace with what is. Belief that all will be well.
Watch for Sparks of Genius
Big Magic is one of my favorite books. I've read it, listened to it, given my copy away, and bought it again.
The book talks about ideas as sparks of creative genius. Ideas travel and spread. They are not something we have to come up with on our own. Instead, we are simply the vehicle for their delivery. The ideas need us as much as we need them.
A few days ago I felt an idea. "I should create my own oracle or mantra deck."
It was a golden twinkle of delight. It sounded fun and exciting. I've recorded two podcast episodes about decks. I love pulling cards and I have a lot of decks. Why not create my own?
I mentioned it to my husband and best friend. They both replied, "You should do that." In a no-brainer, that's totally you, sort of way. I contacted a company that prints custom decks. I outlined my dream deck and requested a quote. When I heard back, the cost was higher than I'd want for my business. Right now.
I let the idea drift away. A few hours later, I felt another tiny knock...
"I could create a digital oracle deck. With a January retreat. Every day a new card could get "pulled" and emailed."
The pings and twinkles were back. This idea had a list of requests. Easy. Encouraging. Enjoyable. I felt a strong knowing that this January retreat should take ten minutes or less each day. And it wanted to be free.
Step Into the Flow and Go
I'm a few days into all of this and in full creation mode. I’m making my own oracle deck. It's exciting, fresh, and fun.
The January retreat follows a similar format to past experiences like Magical May and Align 20/21. It will feel like home to those who have participated in the past. It will feel like a cozy place to land for those who are joining for the first time.
I've been toting my laptop around. Sneaking away whenever a new idea lands on my heart. Someone turned the faucet on. The water is warm and feels so good. I'm in the flow.
Finding Alignment in Action
What's that quote about inspiration and perspiration? Now, in this moment, I'm at the part when I usually start to sweat. My mind starts shaking its head and grumbling. How this "idea" and is going to be "so much work." She also keeps mentioning that offering a retreat for free is a funny way to generate revenue.
I settle my mind with a few gulps of coffee. I turn on some music. Take some deep breaths. I remind myself that the only thing to do is write this essay. And actually, all I can do is write one word at a time. Well really, it's one letter at a time. My body relaxes. I start to trust again. This is where I am right now. And it feels fine.
New Year, Same Pressure
Are you excited about this year, but also anxious about what could be around the corner? You’re not alone. I've been feeling the same.
I looooove a fresh start, but I also get nervous when things are too hyped up. Do you know what I mean? My mind starts running around in circles, playing out all sorts of scenarios. I swing from, “This is going to be the best year ever!” to "But what if it isn't?”
There's pressure to do all the things in January. I'm slowing down. Easing in. Taking my time. Asking fewer questions. Breathing more. Watching my mind run while I drop down to where it's quiet and calm within. I'm trusting my intuition.
Ease In is a Virtual Retreat for January
Want to join me? Ease In is a free virtual retreat. It begins January 12 and ends February 11. Here’s what you get when you join:
Mini Guidebook. Gorgeous 11-page PDF with my favorite resources and rituals for new beginnings of all kinds.
Daily Card Pull. Every weekday you’ll receive an email with a virtual oracle card. Reflect on the message, consider how it applies to your life, use it as a way to connect to your intuition.
Full Moon Gathering. Thursday, January 28 at 7pm CST. Come together on Zoom for a guided meditation, collective journaling, and space to share. (Replay will be available.)
This is not a challenge or a countdown. It’s a soft, simple experience. Connect to intention. Listen to your intuition. Act when you’re inspired. Notice what resonates. Release the rest. Let it unfold.
