Happy New Year! As we step into 2026, I’ve been reflecting a lot on how we choose to start fresh.

I wanted to share a little story with you. About eight years ago, I tried a New Year’s journaling exercise that I still think about all the time. Looking back now, I can honestly say that every single thing I drew and wrote down that day eventually came to reality. It feels like a small miracle to see those pages now.

I’ll admit, I wish I had kept up the tradition every year since then to see my progress, but as we often say in our practice, it is never too late to pick up right where you left off.

To be open with you, doing this exercise again this year helped me realize how "lost" I’ve been feeling lately. It reminded me how vital it is to have a clear picture of our destination. When we have a vision of where we want to go, we can keep moving forward with purpose even if we have to move slowly for a while.

The Exercise: Current Me Vs. Future Me 

This exercise was originally created by the YouTuber Lavendaire, and it’s a beautiful way to center yourself for the year ahead. Here is how it works:

1. The Current Me: On one page, draw the current version of yourself. Capture how you look, how you feel, how you act, and what you’re thinking right now.

2. The Future Me: On the page next to it, draw yourself exactly one year from now (December 2026). Write out how you want to look, feel, act, and think.

3. The Bridge: Look at the two pages side-by-side. What small changes do you need to make in your life this year to become that ideal version of yourself?

   You can watch Lavendaire’s video here.
   

Make it Your Own (No "Journaling" Required!)

I know that for some, the idea of "journaling" feels intimidating. My friend actually told me she struggles with it because she can’t stop judging herself the moment she starts "pouring her heart out" on paper.

If that resonates with you, please know you don't have to write a single word. You can get as creative as you like! Use a collage, abstract shapes, paint, or simple sketches. The goal isn't to be a perfect artist; it’s simply to get the vision out of your head and onto the page.

Connecting to the Heart

Thinking about this exercise reminded me so much of setting a Sankalpa (a sacred intention) before we practice Yoga Nidra. It’s all about getting in touch with our heart’s truest desire. This is what Yoga always guides us back to: connecting and centering ourselves so we can move forward with a clear direction, no matter what lies ahead on life’s path.

I invite you to take some time this week to uncover the future self you want to be and to reach toward your full potential, whatever that means to you.

Looking Ahead

I am so looking forward to seeing you all again and hearing about your journey! I will be resuming our live Zoom classes on January 5th, 2026.

Let’s step into this year with intention, together.

With love and light,

Gaby Knight.

P.S. I always love hearing from you! Whether you have a question, a request for a specific class theme or time, or if you simply feel it's time to pause these emails, just hit reply and let me know. I am here to support you however I can.