As we begin the new year let us remember that we are given a new beginning, a tabula rasa… a clean slate. We can let go of the past by learning from it and looking forward.

• January is the first month of the year and symbolizes new beginnings, renewal and letting go of the past. It’s a time to make plans and resolutions for the future. 
• Alignment of energies: January is said to be a time when energies align to open doors to insights, possibilities and reflections. 
• A chance to catch your breath: January can be a time to catch your breath before the year gets busy. 
• A time to set intentions: New Year’s resolutions are best set in the realm of dreams and intentions in January. 
• A dark time: January can be a dark time, both literally and figuratively. The nights are long and cold, and the promise of spring seems far away. 
•  January is a time to focus on seeking guidance for the year ahead. 

Though medieval Christians attempted to replace January 1 with more significant religious dates, Pope Gregory the 13th created a calendar that officially established January 1 as New Year’s Day in 1582. The month of January is named after Janus, the Roman god of beginnings, endings, doorways and changes. Janus is often depicted with two faces, one looking to the past and one to the future.

Once again may the New Year inspire in all of us with new hope, new creativity, new knowledge, new peace and new joy. The New Year dawns and a new consciousness dawns within us as well. Happy New Year to you and Yours!