A new year is just hours away....and I am looking forward to letting go of the old and starting afresh in the new year. For many people, the only time they reflect on their life in this way is the New Year holiday. Being a mindful practitioner and teacher, I try to bring the practice of "Begin Again" into my daily life. How do I want to 'begin again' with my mindfulness practice, my body movements, my interactions with others, and my work and family life? What is truly needed to 'begin again'?

Curiosity, self compassion and letting go are three elements I practice when trying to begin again. Curiosity helps me be aware of when I've gotten off track - with attention to my breath or in other bigger areas of my life such as my family/work/rest balance. Self compassion is an essential ingredient to be kind to myself when I've noticed I'm off track. Being critical serves no good purpose at all and I'd much rather tell myself, "Yes! Good noticing dear self! Let me begin again!" rather than being harsh and upset. When I am aware and kind with myself, letting go of the bad habit, or the unawareness is much easier to do.

We can begin again at any moment in our life. And I practice this regularly, daily. Begin again with re-focusing on my breath. Begin again with softening my shoulders. Begin again with kindness toward my body. Begin again, slow down and breathe to be more present with my family and clients.

May we all begin again in this upcoming new year!