A New Tradition for My Birthday

Last October, I decided to shake things up for my birthday. Instead of my usual celebration on the actual day, I gifted myself an Onsen Package Voucher to be used in the New Year. It included a luxurious body scrub, and I recently redeemed it to welcome both the New Year and the Chinese New Year in a truly meaningful way.

While many people thrive on the energy of New Year’s Eve parties and crowds, I’ve always preferred a quieter, more introspective approach.

This Onsen experience felt like the perfect way to reflect, recharge, and set a positive intention for the year ahead.

The Allure of the Onsen Package

The package included everything I needed for a truly indulgent experience: access to the Onsen with its various hot and cold pools, a luxurious body scrub, and the promise of pure relaxation.

The memory of a blissful Onsen experience I had enjoyed ten years prior in another spa lingered, and I knew this would be the perfect way to usher in the New Year.

The Hot and Cold Dance: A Balancing Act

The Onsen itself was an oasis of tranquility.

The highlight, of course, was the hot and cold plunge. Immersing myself in the scalding hot water, followed by a bracing dip in the icy cold pool, was an invigorating experience. It felt like I was shedding layers, both physical and emotional.

The Therapeutic Power of Contrast

The contrast between the intense heat and the chilling cold was incredibly therapeutic. It improved my circulation, boosted my mood, and left me feeling incredibly refreshed.

The Exfoliating Magic of the Scrub

The body scrub was the icing on the cake. As I felt the therapist gently exfoliate away the dead skin cells, it struck me how symbolic the process was. It wasn’t just about scrubbing away the old, dry layers of skin; it felt like shedding the parts of me that no longer served a purpose. It was a physical and emotional release, a way to let go of the past and make space for the new.

Shedding the Old, Embracing the New

The Onsen experience was more than just a pampering session; it was a profound reminder to let go of the past and embrace the present. It was a metaphor for the renewal I was seeking in all areas of my life.

Shedding the Old: A Symbolic Act for the Year of the Snake

This year, the Chinese New Year ushers in the Year of the Snake, an animal known for shedding its skin. For me, this symbolism resonates deeply. Just as the snake sheds its old skin to grow, I feel like I’m in a phase of shedding old habits, beliefs, and even relationships that no longer align with who I am or who I want to be.

The Onsen experience felt like a microcosm of this renewal process. The cold dip was a wake-up call, the hot dip a soothing embrace, and the scrub a deliberate act of letting go. It reminded me that renewal isn’t always easy—it requires confronting discomfort and making tough decisions—but it’s necessary for growth.

Decluttering: Beyond Physical Possessions

I’ve been on a decluttering journey for a few years now, starting with my physical space. Letting go of old clothes, books, and knick-knacks felt liberating, but this year, I want to take it a step further. I want to extend the practice of decluttering to other areas of my life—my values, my systems, and even my relationships.

The Onsen experience forced me to confront some of the more difficult decisions I’ve been avoiding. It made me realize that decluttering isn’t just about getting rid of things; it’s about creating space for what truly matters. It’s about auditing my friendships, my health, and my priorities to ensure they align with the life I want to lead.

Embracing the New: A Focus on Physical and Mental Well-Being

As I move forward into this new year, my focus is on both my physical and mental well-being. The Onsen experience was a reminder that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Whether it’s through regular spa visits, mindful eating, or simply taking time to reflect, I want to prioritize activities that nourish my body and soul.

I’ve also realized that renewal isn’t a one-time event; it’s an ongoing process. Just as the snake sheds its skin multiple times throughout its life, I know that I’ll need to continually reassess and let go of what no longer serves me. It’s not always easy, but it’s necessary for growth.

Final Thoughts

This year, I’m entering the Year of the Snake with a renewed sense of purpose. The Onsen experience was more than just a spa day—it was a symbolic act of shedding the old and embracing the new. As I continue my decluttering journey, I’m excited to see where this process of renewal will take me.

Here’s to a year of growth, self-discovery, and embracing the beauty of active aging. How are you ushering in the new year? Have you thought about what you want to shed or embrace? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Until next time,
Jane