Embracing Intentions Over Resolutions This New Year: Cultivating Self-Love And Reflection This Winter With Yoga

The start of a new year often brings a flood of resolutions. Yet, many find themselves stuck in a cycle of setting goals that feel more like pressure than inspiration. Danielle Doby offers a refreshing perspective: "Ditch the resolutions. To resolve means to find a solution to a problem. You are not a problem. The way you showed up for your life in the past year was necessary for your growth... Now is a time to reflect. To learn. To create an intention, a positive call to shift, a spark of magic and manifestation rooted in self love and backed with action." This winter, instead of rushing to fix or change, we can choose to set intentions, turn inward, and nurture ourselves quietly, just like nature does beneath the snow.

Why Intentions Matter More Than Resolutions

Resolutions often come with a sense of urgency and judgment. They imply that something is wrong and must be fixed immediately. This mindset can lead to frustration when goals are not met quickly or perfectly. Intentions, on the other hand, invite a gentler approach. They focus on why you want to change and how you want to grow, rather than demanding instant results.

Intentions are rooted in self-love. They recognize your past efforts as necessary steps in your journey, not failures. This shift in perspective helps you approach the new year with kindness and patience.

Key Differences Between Resolutions and Intentions

• Resolutions focus on outcomes and often involve strict rules.

• Intentions focus on mindset and personal growth.

• Resolutions can feel like pressure; intentions feel like guidance.

• Resolutions often lead to quick fixes; intentions support long-term change.

  
  

Setting Intentions That Spark Growth and Self-Love

Intentions are more than vague wishes. They are positive calls to action rooted in self-love and backed by practical steps. When setting intentions, focus on what you want to invite into your life rather than what you want to eliminate.

Steps to Create Meaningful Intentions

1. Review the past year: What worked well? What didn’t? Celebrate your wins and learn from challenges.

2. Reflect on your values: What matters most to you? Align your intentions with these core beliefs.

3. Be specific but flexible: For example, instead of saying “I want to be healthier,” try “I intend to nourish my body with balanced meals and gentle movement.”

4. Include self-love: Frame intentions as acts of kindness toward yourself.

5. Plan small actions: Break your intention into manageable steps to build momentum.

6. Revisit and adjust: Intentions can evolve as you grow. Check in regularly and adapt as needed.

7. Journal your thoughts: Writing helps clarify your feelings and intentions.

8. Practice mindfulness: Spend time in meditation or quiet reflection to connect with your inner self.

9. Limit new commitments: Focus on maintaining balance rather than adding pressure.

   
   

Winter is a natural time for rest and reflection. Nature shows us that rest is not laziness. It is essential preparation. When we honor this rhythm, we create space for meaningful transformation. Read more about slowing down in winter in our blog post: Embracing Stillness: Winter Yoga Events for Slowing Down and Synching with Nature

Winter garden resting under snow, symbolizing inner growth and reflection

Preparing for Spring: Letting Action Follow Reflection

Winter’s quiet work sets the stage for spring’s visible growth. When the season changes, you will be ready to take action with clarity and confidence. This natural cycle reminds us that transformation takes time and patience.

By honoring winter’s pace, you avoid burnout and build a strong foundation for lasting change. When spring arrives, your intentions will bloom into meaningful habits and growth.

Remember to join us on New Year's Day for an extended yoga practice where you can begin to set your intentions. All of our yoga class can be found on our class schedule. Additionally, visit our events page for more yoga workshops and events. For even more connection check out our upcoming Waves & Wilderness 7-Day Yoga Retreat in Ayampe, Ecuador.