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As the Lunar New Year is on the horizon, the buzz of excitement fills the air, bringing with it the promise of fresh starts, prosperity, and the chance to hit the reset button on our lives. It’s a moment when I feel that deep pull to reconnect with my cultural roots and dive into the traditions that have shaped my upbringing. Even if you’re not actively celebrating Lunar New Year, there’s something universally inspiring about the rituals that accompany it.From embracing holistic self-care routines to adopting mindful practices, these are the things I never fail to make time for during this season. They’re practical, achievable ways to recalibrate amidst life’s hustle and bustle, allowing you to pause and savor the smaller, more meaningful moments. As we usher in the Year of the Dragon on February 10th, here are some practices tailor-made for our generation – simple yet impactful ways to infuse a touch of tradition into our contemporary lives.
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Sage Smudging
Ditch any stereotypes – sage smudging isn’t just for the stereotypical hippy yoga enthusiasts. Rooted in indigenous cultures worldwide, this age-old tradition has seamlessly adapted to the modern world, becoming a contemporary approach to decluttering your space. Igniting dried sage leaves produces aromatic smoke, symbolically purifying and cleansing the energy around you. I use it as a way to bid farewell to negativity and usher in a wave of positive vibes for the year ahead.
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Warm Foot Bath
A soothing warm foot bath is a Lunary New Year ritual rooted in both relaxation and tradition. Influenced by TCM philosophy, this practice seeks harmony in the body’s external, internal, and neutral causes of illness. You can do this yourself by filling a basin with warm water, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil, and sprinkle flower petals for a touch of elegance. As you soak your feet, allow the warmth to unwind tension, symbolizing the washing away of the old and welcoming the new year with renewed energy.
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Journaling
If you are already a consistent journal user, you’re ahead of the game. If not, consider the Lunar New Year the perfect opportunity to get started. Setting aside a few minutes a day is a great way to brain dump and set intentions for the future. As an easy practice, try writing a list of three wishes for yourself in the new year. In Chinese culture, many will place these wishes above the bedroom door with the intention to welcome a positive qi and energy.
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Fresh Flowers
Among the myriad of wellness practices, integrating fresh flowers into your home during Lunar New Year can enhance your well-being. The idea is that fresh florals, with their vibrant colors and delicate fragrances, symbolize the essence of life and growth. Take this opportunity to have fun tapping into your creativity as you build various floral arrangements to fill your home with.
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Financial Organization
It’s tradition to cement your financial fortune by paying off any debts before the start of the Lunar New York. This typically means avoiding borrowing or lending money because superstition says that doing so could mean financial struggles in the next 12 months. These days, I take it as a reminder to set aside time to evaluate my finances and ensure everything is in order. You can also use this time to organize your taxes from 2023 so you can start the year with your best foot forward.
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Tea Time
While I don’t confine my tea time to Lunar New Year only, I do try to make it extra special. I’ll pull out the special kettle and cups, along with my best jasmine tea or pu-erh leaves. Whether enjoyed alone as a moment of self-care or shared with family and friends, the act of brewing and enjoying tea becomes a meditative journey that nourishes the body, mind, and spirit.
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Family Dinner
The Lunar New Year is also the perfect opportunity to spend more family time together. Whether that involves just or immediate family or an extension of grandparents, uncles, and aunts, make plans to enjoy a meal all together. Honestly, spending quality, family time is one of the best things you can do during this time period. If you are one to believe in superstitions, be sure to incorporate a dish with long noodles as this symbolizes longevity and a prosperous life.
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What Lunar New Year wellness rituals will you try this year?