Would you like a fresh start after this crazy last 12 months? Well, you’re in luck. The year has just turned for more than 1.5 billion people. Not on January 1, but on February 12. It’s the Lunar New Year, which falls on the first new moon of the lunisolar calendar, traditionally used in many East Asian countries.
Out with the old, in with the new! The Lunar New Year is about ushering in luck and prosperity with loved ones. Even if it hasn’t been your tradition, you can recognize this time as a new start as well!
In fact, each new moon represents the start of a new cycle and symbolizes new beginnings, so we can get a fresh start about 13 times a year!
The timing of The Lunar New Year aligns with the Earth beginning to wake up in the Northern Hemisphere. Depending on where you live, you may see some early blooming trees beginning to bud. Some bulbs are coming up as well. If you look closely, you can see the renewal all around you in nature.
Last year I grew several giant sunflowers. I gathered the seeds and have another batch started in our “sunroom” that I’ll be planting in the ground soon.
During my years of raising children and working like a madwoman, I wasn’t as connected with the seasons as I am now. I’m reminded of the Elton John song “Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters” where he sings about not being in touch with even the day and night:
Sons of bankers, sons of lawyers
Turn around and say good morning to the night
For unless they see the sky
But they can’t and that is why
They know not if it’s dark outside or light
A great way to connect with the early stirrings of spring is to plant something. You could start a plant inside from seed or, if it’s not too cold where you are, you can plant a cool-weather crop such as greens, which grow all year round where I live.
Whatever you do to recognize a new beginning, I hope it serves as a moment to reset, gain some momentum, and move into this next phase with renewed stamina.
Happy Lunar New Year AND Happy Valentine’s Day!!
Barbara Fagan-Smith
CEO, ROI Communication
Chief Catalyst, Living ROI
P.S. I am hosting a free webinar on How to Build an Enlightened Workplace on February 25 at 10 a.m. PST, and I’d love to have you and your team join me! You can sign up here.
