Softening Into The New Year
As the years flow ever onward, I continue to seek quiet and calm, a softer pace, a slower life. The moments of stillness heal and refresh my spirit, allowing calm to flow into other areas of my life. I caution you, dear reader, do not believe for a moment I am calm, cool, and collected at all times. I lose my temper, release inner frustrations, and become overwhelmed like everyone else.
These moments of intense emotion are completely normal and natural; we all have triggers that can catch us off guard. Those little moments of “Ah, yes, this is where I still need work” remind us that growth is a journey. It’s completely understandable to crave calm and stillness amidst the hustle and bustle of life, which can help alleviate these triggers. The noise and speed can feel overwhelming at times, and it’s okay to feel the weight of short attention span distractions; you’re not alone in this experience.
For this and other reasons, I have recently removed myself from social media (except Instagram, for now). Less time content creating and more time with my dog, with family, with friends, and good books, cozy cups of tea, experiencing cold, refreshing air, the smell of the woods, the sound of birds – Immersed in the moments of my life instead of scrolling past the lives of others.
This is the most beneficial gift I can give myself – the gift of attention, the gift of noticing – those small moments of wonder that bring a simple, exquisite joy. And it is in these moments that I realize the anger, frustration, and impatience are all for naught. Being frustrated or impatient with how life is unfolding does not change anything; it only clouds judgment and delays results – if only it were easy to remember this simple fact in the midst of turmoil.
So I pause, I consider, I notice what is causing addiction triggers, and I remove hassles and unserving habits, and I begin to move more deliberately, more intentionally, more authentically. So, dear reader, for 2026, consider giving yourself the gift of a pause; it’s okay to stop scrolling and step back from the constant digital noise. Embrace the joy of finding a hobby, diving into a good book, enjoying a peaceful walk, or even allowing yourself to rest with a nap. Whatever you choose, remember that it’s perfectly fine to put the phone down and take the time you truly need for yourself.
#awareness #balance #doomScrolling #experience #flow #healing #meditate #meditation #mindful #mindfulness #moments #newYear #practice #softeningMay you be happy.
May you be well.
May you be safe.
May you be peaceful and at ease.
