Xīnnián kuàilè!!
We've made it around the sun to see another year, and I don't know how to feel about it. 2022 was a full-on rollercoaster with way too many twists and turns for my liking. It felt like 2020, but on steroids. But ke, I'm still here.
But coming into 2023. I am choosing to go in with intentions and good vibrations.
Even though the Gregorian (western) calendar has begun the 2023 year; my mind, body, spirit and being is still reeling in from 2022. So this year I've decided to celebrate the new year with the Lunar calendar.
The Lunar New Year in East Asia starts on the second new moon after the winter solstice, which is always sometime in December. Thus, the first day of the Lunar New Year can be anytime between January 21 and February 20. This year, the Lunar New year is celebrated from 22 January 2023. As with multiple winter solstice celebrations; the light of candles, lanterns and fireworks eliminates the figurative darkness that comes with the night. Lanterns are hung in public areas which welcome good fortune for the new year.
As per the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac; 2023 is the Year of the Rabbit. Those born in the Year of the Rabbit (2023, 2011, 1999, 1987, 1975, 1963...) are said to be “jack of all traits”. They are known to be affectionate people who thrive at forming tight-knit relationships. And just like rabbits, they appreciate tranquillity.
I currently have 3 pet rabbits (we've had more over the years, but the circle of life says hi) and they are my world. When I found out that 2023 is the year of the rabbit, I saw it as a sign to be intentional - far reach I know. If I don't start being intentional now, when will I start?
The following is a list of affirmations, expressed in rabbit body languages, that I wish we (no, I don't speak French) remember and get the opportunity to embody through 2023...
Circling
Rabbits do this whenever they are excited or are trying to show their expression of love to you. It's almost pretty much the equivalent of clapping your hands with excitement. May you be offered the platform to express love the way it fulfils you and may you receive it tenfold. Let's all accept that this year will be filled with excitement about new environments, opportunities, people and prayers.
Flopping
The first time I saw my rabbits do this, my heart dropped to my feet. Because why do you look dead?! But when I rushed towards him and called out his name, he pulled a Jesus and rose from the dead🙂. After my mom and I did research, we found that this is how they communicate that they are relaxed and content. After my heart travelled back to my chest, I was filled with so much warmth that they felt so safe in their environment and my company to be vulnerable enough to communicate that. I wish for us all to be within environments and surrounded by people who make us feel safe enough to bring our walls down. May this be in both platonic and romantic relationships - mix masala.
Periscope
You know the saying: "Curiosity killed the cat"? The saying continues "..but satisfaction brought it back". Being curious is not a bad thing at all, it helps you see things from a different perspective. Like how the rabbit stands on its hind legs to see things from a different height, thus taking calculated risks. All it takes is 10 seconds of insane courage to change the trajectory (fancy word) of your life. I say do it!
Yawn
Last but not least; rest sana. You can't perform at your best if you're tired and burnt out. The whole guilt-tripping that comes with capitalism truly needs to be retired, because why am I grinding with one eye open and a painful back? Last year, I promised myself that I'm gonna prioritise rest this year because it's truly time to choose myself. One thing people don't realise is that your physical health has a huge impact on your mental health. So rest until you rust if you must (no rhyming intended).
In conclusion; I hope these rabbit affirmations help you be intentional in being kind to yourself. You can only leave so much to the universe.
This post is in honour of my forever babies: Lunchmunchkin, Fluffy, Chum-Chum, Chestnut, Billy, Cashew, Hazel, Pecan, Pistachio, Peanut and Coconut.
References:
S.N.M.(not et al. (2023) Lunar New Year 2023: The year of the rabbit, Almanac.com. Available at: https://www.almanac.com/content/chinese-new-year-chinese-zodiac (Accessed: January 17, 2023).
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