December 30, 2008 | ISSUE 342

Need a New Year's Resolution?

With less than two days left in 2008, now is a good moment to spend some time reflecting on your hopes and plans for 2009. While resolutions are a New Year's tradition, however, they run the risk of creating unhealthy expectations and setting you up for failure.

Put a positive spin on the New Year by setting intentions. As motivating as goals, more forgiving than resolutions, and more conscious than hopes, they help you envision your highest potential—and align your daily decisions. Take action today to jot down several of your best intentions for the coming year.

Blessings,
Andrea Kowalski

IN THIS ISSUE

Resolve to Evolve

Give your New Year's resolutions a yogic twist—set an intention and infuse the New Year with positive change.

http://www.yogajournal.com/lifestyle/1526

The Heart's Intention

Setting objectives is not the same as making goals. Confusing the two can lead to unnecessary suffering.

http://www.yogajournal.com/wisdom/926

The Dharma of Life Changes

Does your desire to make New Year's resolutions come from wholesome motivation or unresolved issues in your life?

http://www.yogajournal.com/wisdom/439

Community Blog of the Week

Early New Year's Resolution, by EcoYogi
One usually chooses resolutions as a way of improving one's life. It takes dedication and practice. I will do my best to stick to my resolutions and enjoy the benefits along the way—in this case, more knowledge on topics from actually finishing a book and a stronger, more flexible and relaxed body.

Respond to EcoYogi or start your own blog in the YJ community.
http://community.yogajournal.com/kickapps/

Protect Yourself with Benefits Plus Insurance

Yoga teachers: You've been trained to protect your students, but are you, yourself, protected? Yoga Journal Benefits Plus is a trusted program that provides teachers and studios with liability insurance and benefits—including discounts, teacher guides, and a subscription to Yoga Journal. Enroll today.
http://www.yogajournal.com/benefitsplus

IN THE CURRENT NEWSSTAND ISSUE: December 2008

Read these stories and more in the latest issue of Yoga Journal magazine. Better yet... click here to subscribe today and save!

Free From Worry

Melt away anxiety's grip on your body and mind with a tension-taming practice.

By Rachel Brahinsky

Gifts From the Heart

Celebrate the ones you love this season by giving gifts that honor your connection to them. To inspire you, we've collected tales from 12 creative yogis about the best gifts they ever gave.

By Lisa Maria

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Please send comments about content or suggestions for how to improve this newsletter to Andrea Kowalski at suggestions@yogajournal.com.

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