A Fresh Start for the Soul

 

Photo by me ♥

 ♥ Forgive someone. “Holding onto anger is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die.” This year, forgive someone who hurt you. If you can't face them physically, I recommend visualizing the person and what they did to you, and simply saying to that image in your mind "I forgive you." Allowing yourself to forgive allows your heart to heal.

 ♥ Start a vision board. This year, start collecting images and quotes of what inspires you. Stick 'em in frames, on your wall, on a board, in your dayplanner, or on your mirror. Keep yourself constantly surrounded by what inspires you and reminds you to always focus on your dreams. Additionally, explore new inspirations.

 ♥ Make a new friend. Say hi to the barista who always remembers your order. Introduce yourself to your new neighbour. Join a penpal community and start writing letters to someone halfway around the globe. There are so many opportunities for friendship out there!

♥ Learn how to speak another language. You can buy a book, download an app, or join www.MyLanguageExchange.com!

♥ Volunteer your time. Helping others is so good for the soul! You can volunteer at an animal shelter, a soup kitchen, a youth drop-in center, the old folks' home, or you can offer to walk your friend's dog while she's away or baby-sit a single mother's kids. The experiences you gain will stay with you always.

♥ Make a wish jar. I am a firm believer in the power of wishes, visualization and positive thinking. Grab a pretty jar, sprinkle some glitter inside and place it somewhere you can see it every day. Whenever you have a wish, jot it down on a piece of paper and toss it in the jar! I like to go through my wishes every few weeks and marvel at the wishes that have come true or that I no longer require.

♥ Start a relaxing hobby. Having something to look forward to at the end of the day is always nice. You could try your hand at knitting, writing, or video games!

♥ Drink tea. For all of the health benefits, of course, but also because it is so lovely to brew a pot of tea, sit down with a blanket [or a cat], a book, a teacup and relax.

♥ Count your blessings. Every Thursday I try to take part in Gala Darling's 'Things I Love Thursday.' You can write your list every Thursday, every day, on Facebook, Tumblr, your blog, or in a tiny journal only you can read. When you're having a bad day, read through your lists and realize how blessed you truly are.

♥ Schedule daily cuddle breaks with a pet. Or a baby. Instant stress reliever and an excellent way to start your day off right.

♥ Learn how to cook or bake. These winter months are the perfect time to learn how to cook or bake something amazing. Besides, isn't it so much nicer being able to make food yourself instead of buying it all the time?

♥ Reach out to your friends. Feeling guilty about any friends you haven't spoken to in a while? Call them up and ask them out for coffee! Resolve to spend more times with the people who are important to you this year.

♥ Break a bad habit. Promise yourself this year will be the year you stop biting your nails, or smoking cigarettes, or living paycheck to paycheck. It can take a bit of time and self-discipline but I have faith in you!

♥ Find a talisman for the new year. Preferably something that reminds you of what you want to achieve this year, whether it's physical, spiritual, or what have you. Remember to wear it often, if not always, and reach for your dreams.

♥ Start a healthy habit. Whether it's daily green smoothies, taking your dog for more walks, or cutting coffee out of your diet. Promise yourself 2016 will be a healthier year!

xo,
Kuri.