Have you noticed that every January, the world seems to collectively decide that it’s time for transformation? Gym memberships spike, goal lists are written, and the phrase "New Year, New Me" fills social media feeds. You may have even set your own new year resolutions.
But what if I told you that January is actually one of the worst times to set resolutions?
It’s not because setting goals is inherently bad—far from it. It’s because January, deep in the heart of winter, is a season designed for rest, reflection, and stillness. And yet, modern life pushes us to override this natural rhythm, encouraging us to sprint when our bodies and minds are quietly asking us to slow down.
The Truth About Winter: A Season of Stillness
Nature has always known this truth. Look outside—trees stand bare, animals slow their movements, and the earth seems to take a long, deep breath. Winter isn’t a season of outward productivity; it’s a time for conserving energy, for turning inward, and for preparing the soil for what’s to come.
Our bodies, too, follow this same ancient wisdom. In winter, we naturally crave warmth, rest, and moments of stillness. Yet, in the chaos of modern life, we’re encouraged to leap into January with relentless energy, to set ambitious goals, and to sprint towards change as if the calendar flipping to a new year is the starting gun of a race.
But real transformation doesn’t happen when we’re exhausted, depleted, or forcing ourselves to push through.
Why Resolutions Often Fail in January
When we set resolutions in January, we’re fighting against the natural flow of the season. We’re asking ourselves to bloom in a season that’s meant for rooting.
Energy Levels Are Low: The shorter days, reduced sunlight, and colder weather affect our energy and mood. This isn’t the ideal state for chasing ambitious goals.
Lack of Alignment: Winter is a season for reflection and quiet preparation—not for launching into grand projects.
Nature’s Wisdom Ignored: When we step away from the natural cycles of the earth, we disconnect from an innate rhythm that supports sustainable growth.
It’s no wonder that by February, so many resolutions have fizzled out. Our energy reserves weren’t ready, and we were pushing against the tide instead of flowing with it.
Spring: The Natural Season for Renewal and Growth
If January is for resting, then Spring is for growing.
In Spring, the world begins to wake up. Buds appear on trees, flowers bloom, and animals emerge from hibernation. The energy shifts, and there’s a palpable sense of movement and possibility in the air.
Our bodies and minds mirror this change. As the days grow longer and the sun’s warmth returns, our energy levels naturally rise. We feel more motivated, more inspired, and more ready to take action.
Spring is the season of fresh starts and new beginnings—it’s the perfect time to set goals and intentions.
What Should You Do in Winter Instead?
So, if January isn’t the time for big resolutions, what is it time for?
Rest: Give yourself permission to slow down, sleep more, and embrace moments of stillness.
Reflect: Use this time to look back on the past year—what worked, what didn’t, and what you want to carry forward.
Plant Seeds: Quietly set intentions. Think of them as seeds you’re planting in the still, frozen soil, knowing they’ll grow when the time is right.
Nourish Yourself: Focus on self-care practices that restore you—warm baths, hearty meals, gentle movement, and calming meditations.
In my yoga classes recently, I have tried to remind my students that winter is a time for being, not doing. It’s a time to listen to your body, honour your energy levels, and allow yourself to simply exist without pressure or expectation. If you are searching for some winter calm and would like to join me on the mat, you can find my class schedule for online and in-person yoga classes here.
Let’s Redefine New Beginnings
What if, instead of rushing into January with a list of rigid resolutions, we approached it as a time of gentle preparation? What if we allowed ourselves to follow the earth’s lead—to rest in winter and bloom in spring?
True transformation isn’t about forcing ourselves into action when we’re not ready. It’s about aligning with the natural cycles of energy and growth.
So, this winter, give yourself permission to slow down. Reflect, rest, and trust that when spring arrives, you’ll have the energy, clarity, and inspiration you need to move forward.
There’s no rush. The light will return, the warmth will come, and you’ll be ready to bloom when the season invites you to do so.
Until then, rest deeply. Winter is holding you in its quiet embrace.
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