As we step into December, the world outside is slowing down. The days are shorter, the nights longer, and there’s a quiet shift happening in nature—one that mirrors what’s happening within us. There’s a certain magic in this time of year, a chance to reflect, reset, and recalibrate before the fresh energy of the new year arrives.
The darkness isn’t just a weather pattern. It’s a sacred invitation. The darker days call us to turn inward, to pause, and to reflect on what’s truly important. It’s a time to let go of the distractions, the noise, and the busyness that often keeps us from tuning into our deepest desires and truths. As my chi gong mentor, Marissa Cranfield, so beautifully says, letting go and cleansing isn’t about losing something—it’s about living life to its fullest potential.
Clear Space to Bring in What Matters
This time of year is all about clearing out the old to make room for what’s to come. But here’s the thing: it’s not about accumulating more. We don’t need more stuff, more to-dos, or more resolutions. What we need is to remove what no longer serves us—the things that clutter our minds, hearts, and lives. We need to clear the path so we can step into the next chapter of our lives with clarity and purpose.
In Chinese, the word for “intention” (Yi) is made up of the characters for sound and heart. This simple but profound symbol reminds us that our true intentions come when our hearts and minds are in sync. When we can quiet the noise, tune into the sound of our inner voice, and listen to what our hearts are telling us, that’s when intention flows freely.
The Power of Slowing Down
With the world outside moving into darkness, it’s a perfect moment for us to slow down too. It’s an invitation to quiet our busy minds and tune into what’s bubbling up from within. We can’t hear our true intentions if we’re rushing around, chasing after goals that aren’t really ours to begin with. So this season, as the days grow shorter, give yourself permission to draw inward.
This is the time to reflect: What do you want to bring into your life next year? What do you want to nurture, grow, and tend to? The answers aren’t out there—they’re inside you. And the only way to hear them clearly is to be still enough to listen.
Setting Intentions That Align with Your Heart
Setting intentions isn’t about creating a list of resolutions that make us feel “better” or more accomplished. It’s about honoring what our hearts are asking for. Your intention should feel simple, specific, and—most importantly—aligned with your spirit.
Here’s how to get clear on your intention:
- Positive Focus: Set your intention around what you want to create or call in, not what you want to avoid. This isn’t about fixing yourself; it’s about amplifying what’s already there.
- For example, instead of saying, “I want to stop feeling overwhelmed,” try: “I am embracing calm and balance in my daily life.”
- Present Tense: Your intention should reflect what you’re already stepping into. Even if you’re not there yet, say it like you are well on your way.
- For example, “I am growing into my full potential every day.”
- Simple and Specific: Keep it clear and concise. One sentence is all you need. Make sure it’s specific enough that you’ll know when you’ve attained it.
- For example, “I am dedicating 15 minutes each morning to stillness and reflection.”
- Aligned with Your Spirit: The most important piece: your intention needs to be in alignment with your heart. Does it feel true? Does it resonate with the core of who you are?
Testing Your Intention
Once you’ve crafted your intention, test it out. Close your eyes, place your hand over your heart, and say it out loud. Does it land? Does it feel expansive, authentic, and full of life?
If it resonates deeply, you’ve got it. If not, keep refining it until it feels like it’s coming from your deepest, truest place.
The Wisdom of Darkness
In this quiet season of shorter days and longer nights, we are called to reflect and nurture what we want to grow. The darkness is not something to fear; it’s something to honor. It’s in the dark soil that seeds germinate, that ideas take root, and that we prepare for new growth.
This December, I invite you to slow down, reflect, and give yourself the space to set an intention that’s aligned with your heart and spirit. As you step into the new year, let your intention be the guiding light that helps you navigate toward your true self.
What will your intention be for 2025? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Share them below—let’s start this journey together.
