Tending Your Fire

For the last five years, I’ve spent my early winter mornings building fires. The radiators in our 130-year-old house struggle to keep us warm when the temps drop into the teens.

So, out into the darkness I go, gathering logs and kindling. I arrange them “just so” in the wood stove with bits of newspaper tucked between the wood before striking the match.

I love the process. The first spark. The smell of wood and smoke. The dance of the flames. The crackle of burning wood. And the warmth on my cheeks as I tend to the fire.

There are days that I build my fire in haste. Not clearing out ash when I know a fresh start is needed. Or failing to arrange the wood to allow enough oxygen to feed the flame. The result is struggle…smoke everywhere and lots of extra work to get things going.

As I watched the flickering flames this morning, on one of the last days of the year, I couldn’t help but realize the striking similarities between building and tending a fire and the art of nurturing our personal well-being.

A fire begins with a spark. So does our path toward caring for ourselves more deeply. To ignite change, whether big or small, we must first have a strong inner desire or impulse. To clarify your desires for 2024, consider these 9 Journaling Prompts designed to guide you toward “your spark”💫 for the upcoming year. *I love going through this process every year and hope it is a fun, enlightening experience for you, too.

Just as a sturdy foundation is crucial for building a lasting fire, creating a solid foundation is essential for your well-being. Consider the basics: You need a clear plan, time on your calendar dedicated to self-care, and a supportive environment, both space and encouragement. These elements provide the stability necessary to sustain the flames of wellness throughout the year.

For guidance on creating an inviting space in your home to care for yourself regularly, go here: Create Your Home Yoga Space

A steady fire requires the right wood, kindling, and just the right amount of air. Similarly, self-care begins with choosing activities that stoke your inner flame: mind, body, and soul. Just as different woods burn uniquely, we all find solace in different self-care practices. I’m drawn to yoga, journaling, sitting in quiet, and time in nature, as well as activities that get my heart pumping (hiking, cycling, and more). You might be drawn to something else.

If you need inspiration on caring for yourself in 2024, here are 7 Ways to Take Good Care of Yourself.

Last but certainly not least, tending a fire requires continuous, intentional effort. You can’t just walk away and expect the flames to continue burning. The same is true for our own tending. We must show up consistently to reap the benefits of our self-care practices. In my full life, I’ve found it helpful to remember that the energy I spend caring for myself positively impacts those around me. By prioritizing my own care, I quietly offer others permission to do the same.

So, as we ease into the new year, envision yourself as the keeper of your inner flame. Be patient and attentive. Lay a solid foundation for your self-care, choose the right fuel, and stoke your fire regularly to ensure your spark and fire burn brightly throughout the year.

To add a little kindling to your flame, here is a new playlist and a short yoga practice to stoke your fire. 🔥

In honor of new beginnings, I’ve created a playlist to amplify your fire-tending activities. My personal favorite is “One Door Opens” by MC YOGI and John Pattern. Let me know if you have a song that motivates you this season. I’d love to co-create the next playlist WITH YOU. xo

New Beginnings Playlist

I’m beyond grateful to be on this path with you!  And I hope your journey is filled with warmth, growth, and a flourishing sense of well-being in 2024! ❤️‍🔥 Please let me know if there are ways I can support you and your continued thriving.

I’m rooting for you,

Tener