New Year, New Focus

Happy 2020 to all my lovely friends, family and followers! I am so thankful to have been able to start the new year off with my wonderful boyfriend, as well as spend some quality time with family in Canada for Christmas. Lately, I've had a big case of writer's block which prevented me from posting in December. Now that January has arrived, I thought I'd do my own take on a New Year's Resolution of sorts. Often times, people will set unrealistic goals and expectations for themselves in the hopes that a big change will happen, whether it be physically or mentally. My goal is to take the idea of a resolution and change it into a focus. This focus allows for wholistic, inner growth over a long period of time. The best part? I'm about to help you find your New Year's Focus using beloved healing stones and crystals! While I am in no way an expert, a witch, nor a healing guru, I will do my best to describe each stone and fill you in on what your new focus will be based on the crystal you choose. Although you aren't obligated to purchase your chosen stone, Etsy and the internet, in general, have beautiful jewelry, decor pieces, and raw specimens to make your focus that much more tangible. Without further ado, let's jump right in!

PICK A CRYSTAL:

IF YOU CHOSE...

RED JASPER - INSPIRATION

Feeling lethargic or unmotivated? 2020 is the year to get your creativity flowing! Break out your journal, camera, or canvas and tap into your creative process once a week. What gives your stomach butterflies? What causes you existential dread? Utilize these feelings to travel deeper into your own art and psyche.

YELLOW AVENTURINE - CONFIDENCE

It's time to start being kinder to yourself! Self-confidence starts with the recognition of negative thoughts first and transformation second. Take a few moments at the end of each day to recall when you felt good about yourself, and when you did not. In the morning, tell yourself three things you love about you. Whatever you manifest on the inside will slowly start to show on the outside. Remind yourself that the flaws you have do not define you as a person.

CITRINE - OPTIMISM

Looking on the bright side in any situation is one of the most difficult tasks to take on, but 2020 is the year you will conquer! Fostering positivity in one's life can lead to numerous personal benefits, including an increase in productivity and wealth. When manifesting optimism, it is important to find what brings light into your life. Whether it is a certain person, song, book, or even meal, keep those things close and try to incorporate them into your weekly routine.

JADE - COURAGE

It is time to take on the big challenges that 2020 will bring! Courage is a muscle that needs to be strengthened through experience. Step out of your comfort zone and try something new each month. For example, you may wear something you've never thought you could pull off, or you can try a food you've never tasted. Feel the rush of adrenaline when you complete the task you were nervous or worried about. In this way, you will gain the wisdom to see past the limitations you put on yourself.

LAPIS LAZULI - AWARENESS

Feeling lost inside of yourself? Now's your chance to a bit of soul-searching. Think about the bigger changes that occurred over the past year. Remember that you are still standing despite the difficulties life has thrown at you. Taking time to dig deep into your own desires can help you to focus your energy on what is most important to you in 2020. If your mind is cluttered, write down the points that jump out as urgent, followed by those of medium importance, and lastly the smaller "wants" as opposed to needs.

AMETHYST - TRUST

Doubt can so easily cloud the mind, especially when the news and social media make it difficult to get through the day worry-free. Having faith in your own path is crucial to living a healthy lifestyle. Your journey is unique, and most likely not linear either! With progress, there are often times setbacks. Do not be discouraged; what you are looking for may be just around the corner. Trust in yourself, and trust in others will follow.

ROSE QUARTZ - COMPASSION

While it may sound cheesy, extending love and care to others will allow for the same feelings to manifest inside of yourself! As you start your week, remind yourself that everyone is living vastly different lifestyles with a multitude of challenges. Some hide them very well, while others openly ask for help when they are suffering. Take the time to check up on your family and friends - it can be as simple as a text, a card, or a visit. Spread kindness like confetti!

OPAL - RECOVERY

If you're suffering from a broken heart, a severed relationship, or even miscommunications with those whom you love, it's time to start fresh. Just as the light reflects off this stone in many different ways, you may need to look at your personal struggle in a new light. Try communicating your feelings using "I" statements if you're in a relationship rut. The easing of sadness will come through emotional support, so don't hesitate to reach out to someone you trust. New doors full of opportunities are sure to open during the healing process.

BLACK ONYX - CALMNESS

Life has this great ability to cause anxiety when we least expect it. If you're prone to worrying, take a moment to breathe and concentrate on grounding yourself using physical senses such as touch and smell. Carrying around a small item (such as this stone) can be especially helpful in times of stress. Allow yourself to feel the anxiety without pushing it down. Recognize that the state of being will pass like a wave.

And that's it! I hope you now have some positive insight into your New Year's Focus. If you happen to incorporate any of these stones into your personal focus, tell me about your experiences!

Until Next Time,

Anna xxx