what REALLY happens when you choose a yearly intention word

You’ve probably heard lots of versions of what Rhonda Byrne said in The Secret: “Your thoughts become things.” And while I haven’t mastered spontaneously manifesting a gluten-free vegan chocolate cake, I was on the receiving end of some interesting results of the focus I held for myself last year.

If you’ve been following me for a while (hey, that’s nice—thanks!) you know that I like to choose a word in January to center myself for the coming months. Let’s see, so far there’s been “space,” (2018), “listen” (2019), rhythm (2020) and ritual (2021). And in 2022, I chose “retreat.”

As a yoga teacher who thrives on the energy of a group of like-minded folks bonding over delicious food, creative activities, flowing movement and relaxing downtime, it was only natural that my word would have some connection to the retreats that I enjoy offering from the Green Mountains of Vermont (both in-person and online). Maybe that’s why my June weekend at Wild Trails Farm—with mala-making, restorative yoga and disappearing plant-based treats—was so rewarding. And I’m guessing that intentionally focusing on all the nourishment the word “retreat” conjures up for months beforehand probably helped with that. But wait, there’s more …

I purposely chose a word that would remind me to build my own selfcare into the mix in 2022—that I get comfortable with stepping away from the always-on of managing my own business and remember to get quiet myself so I could appreciate my homestead. So I made the decision in early summer to pause my live online classes and turn my attention to the our expanded vegetable gardens, home renovations and more. That felt really good—and it helped me be surprisingly productive, too.

I knew that there are lots of distractions when the weather is fair, and that I might just miss all the feels that go along with having a passion project once the infamous New England winter arrived. As the word “retreat” rolled around and around in my head, a unique opportunity presented itself late last summer: creating bespoke personal retreats for Vermont visitors … right at the sustainably designed inn where I had hosted my own group gathering a couple of months before.

Now I get to craft unique selfcare weekends for guests of Wild Trails Farm, with services like Pranic energy healing, sound therapy, Asian bodywork, mindfulness meditation and more … offerings from other entrepreneurs just like me. I’m honored to work with talented local practitioners and travelers who appreciate 400+ acres of natural beauty through Vermont’s varied seasons, on a schedule that fits best with my needs, too. All the wins!

When I realized that “retreat” had come to me in the form of this exciting new offering, the power of embodying an intention and bringing it to life was palpable. Whether you use a vision board, a mantra, meditation, or some other tool to help keep your word front-and-center, doing so will ensure that everyone understands just what would make you happiest in this life … and you’ll be served up what’s in your best interest at that time.

Oh, and this year? For 2023 my word is svadhyaya, a Sanskrit word meaning self-study. And it’s going to go way beyond my usual reading of books, so I can concentrate on learning more about how I think—what I find challenging, and what lights me up. I think I’m off to a good start so far.

What’s your experience been, when you selected a word or intention for the year?

2022 selfcare retreat at wild Trails Farm. You can attend—or host—an event at Wild Trails, too! Click here to learn more.