Don’t make your vision board yet.

Just because we’re wrapping up 2025 doesn’t mean you’re energetically ready to create one. Maybe you are—but if you aren’t, starting too soon can actually slow down your alignment with what you want.

One of the biggest blockers?
Holding on to old, stagnant people, places, and things that no longer serve you. Not only do they drain your energy—they often make you miserable.

You must let go of what doesn’t work to receive what does.
That’s not philosophy—it’s mechanics.

Sometimes energy is on your side, and sometimes it isn’t. Right now, it is.

The New Moon on December 19th arrives just days before the Winter Solstice on December 21st—the darkest point of the year and the moment the light begins its return. Nature doesn’t push forward during this time. It clears. It rests. It releases what can’t move into the next cycle.

I’ve experienced this rhythm in my own life for over 20 years. Every time I held on—whether to a situation, a belief, or a person—I blocked what I was asking for. And every single time I finally let go, something I had been wanting had room to arrive.

Letting go, releasing, and clearing can be uncomfortable. But the truth is, you already know what needs to go.

Pause here for a moment and ask yourself:
 What do I need to release?

For most people, the answer is obvious—and it’s probably been weighing on you longer than you’d like to admit.

The Winter Solstice reminds us of something important: the light doesn’t disappear forever—it returns when space has been made for it.

How to Work With the New Moon & Solstice Intentionally

This isn’t about forcing belief or pretending everything is perfect. It’s about clearing the signal—then choosing what replaces it.

December 19th – New Moon (Release)

On December 19th, write down what you’re releasing. Say it out loud a few times throughout the day—not to convince yourself, but to acknowledge completion.



December 21st – Winter Solstice (Receive)

On the day of the Solstice, write down what you want as if you already have it. Then say it out loud a few times throughout the day, allowing your nervous system to register the shift.

Here’s a simple example using family dynamics:

New Moon (Dec 19): 
“I am releasing old family patterns and relationships that drain my energy and rob me of happiness.”

Winter Solstice (Dec 21): 
“Loving, supportive people surround me, and I love the peaceful world I live in.”

Release first.
Then receive.

Ritual-Like Ways to Finalize Your Release on December 19th

Letting go isn’t just a mindset shift—it’s an action. Ritual-like acts help the brain and nervous system register finality. Use what resonates. Ignore what doesn’t.

If you’re clinging to an old memory, person, or situation that still haunts your mind: 
Find a photo of the person or situation and burn it safely. If you don’t have a photo, draw one or find an image online that resembles it. As you burn it, acknowledge what it taught you—and release it.

If you’re holding on to an old car that constantly breaks down because you’re afraid to spend money: 
Clean it out as if you were taking it to the car lot to trade it in. As you clean, thank the car for serving you, but clearly state that this chapter is complete. Find a photo of the type of car you want next and place it somewhere visible inside your current car. Each day, when you see it, express gratitude for the new car as if it’s already on its way.

If you stay connected on social media to someone out of history, obligation, or guilt—but they irritate you every time you see them: 
On December 19th, delete them.
Then, on the Winter Solstice, say something like:
“I released (name) because I am ready to welcome people into my life who bring peace, joy, and opportunities.”

If you’ve been dealing with the same unresolved health issues for years and nothing is changing: 
On December 19th, contact your healthcare provider. Tell them you’re done with the status quo and ready for a new approach. Clearly outline what you’re releasing and ask for a new treatment plan. If you aren’t heard, seek a second opinion.
On the Solstice, express gratitude for finding solutions and support that truly help you heal.

These actions aren’t symbolic fluff. They signal readiness.
They tell your subconscious—and the Universe—that you are done tolerating what doesn’t work.

Why This Matters Before You Create a Vision Board

Clarity doesn’t come from wanting more.
It comes from making space.

This is why I don’t rush straight into goal-setting or vision boarding in December. When you clear first, what you want becomes obvious—and alignment happens faster.

If you’re ready to move into the new year with intention, clarity, and a clean energetic slate, this is the work that comes first.

Release happens in the dark.
Receiving begins when the light returns.

I’m hosting IRL vision board classes throughout January. If you’re interested in attending, email me – paula@paulaswope.com.