January is a time of joy for many. It is the month in which a certain carbonated energy fizzes in the air, as yet another year draws to a close and a new one begins—the party season bubbling with life all about us. 

But this can also be a time of intense stress, anxiety, and sadness for some people. And following the generally frenetic pace that is characteristic of the final calendar month, it is important to slow down in January and take a moment to nurture oneself—creatively, spiritually, and physically. 

The first full moon of the year, in nurturing Cancer, invites us to do just that. It sheds light upon the year that has passed and can teach us much about the forward quest for spiritual awakening.

So this January, we encourage you to build an altar to the self. To step into the light and burn a candle in gratitude for your creative process and all that you have achieved this past year, as well as all that you are hoping to achieve for the year ahead. To release any stress that you might be feeling at this time and guide yourself gently back to that which sparks creative reverence. Clearing the way for a brand new year and all the hope that it holds.