Trigger warning: discussions of suicide. Please only read this post if you are in a safe space to do so.

Whew! Crazy to believe we are in an entirely new year, hey?

We’ve taken a long, extended break over the holidays for rest and reflection. We’re finally back online today to share some of that reflection with all of you, and wish you well as we head into this new year!

The past year has certainly been a roller-coaster ride. There have been some good moments – really good moments. I paid off my student loans in full. Shortly after, I bought a car. I got the chance to travel again in the summer after not having done so for SO LONG, and went back to Toronto for a week of adventure. I also moved to Kelowna to my very own place. These moments were excellent, but the year also brought some heartbreaking lows. The lowest of all was losing someone to suicide, just a few months ago. It hurts to know that they aren’t with us for this new year. I have spent time focusing on the grieving process and allowing myself to truly feel my feelings – which isn’t always easy, but is necessary for healing.

This past year, I also spent a lot of time connecting with my family, and with friends in person when possible. Facetime sessions have also been a lifesaver. Continuing to prioritize my health and wellness, while still in the middle of a pandemic, has also been key over the past year. I think this priority will remain for this coming year as well – our health is always the most important aspect of our lives. It’s so necessary to take care of ourselves first.

Each new year also brings with it the possibility of hope. Hope for something new. As we head into 2022, my hope is to leave behind aspects of life that are not fulfilling for me and truly focus on what makes me feel alive. I am going to continue to prioritize health and wellness, specifically focusing on healing. Ultimately my biggest aim for the year is health, healing and happiness – it’s a lofty goal, but a simple and important one.

I’ve spent the past week or so really focusing on myself before re-joining the world. Taking some much needed time for grieving, feeling, healing. I spent time cultivating healthy habits, establishing new routines, journaling and checking in with myself, checking in with others when I can, and taking a social media break. I’m also taking part in Dry January and giving alcohol a break, as well as coffee when I can (coffee never makes me feel great so I’m doing my best to work towards eliminating it). This year, my focus really is on healing, and a lot of that comes from turning inwards and taking care of ourselves.

At the same time, community and connection is also important for healing. Something I felt that I haven’t really done yet since moving to Kelowna is fully establish a sense of community here. Creating feelings of connection is something I will be working on over the next few months. We all need each other, and nurturing fulfilling relationships will help on that journey. I am hopeful that I can create that sense of community here.

So here’s to the new year. Life is short, so let’s spread love and do what we love. I am wishing you all a wonderful new year, I hope it brings lots of health and happiness your way. <3