Your inner child is that innermost part of you, the "original" you, that still sees and responds to the world as an innocent child does. It doesn't really matter if you're familiar with this term or not, though — this is an open letter to my inner child that might be everything you didn't even know you needed to hear.

Often called the most beloved poet in America, Mary Oliver was the first name I had in mind when I decided to read more poetry this year. Her deep sense of wonder, natural imagery, and simple language pulled me in; the solace I found in her words kept me there.

Okay, sometimes it’s a salt bath and a piece of chocolate. But real self-care isn’t set in stone. It changes as you change. It’s changing your focus, habits and priorities when what used to work for you doesn’t work anymore. And what you need right now, it’s not always pretty or popular.

Since I lost my brother to suicide, I've been a heck of a lot more aware about what works for me and what doesn't. I've learned there are things you don't have to do -- the sorts of things that chip away at your quality of life. I wonder if life has taught you some of these same things, too...

The more in tune you get with what you’re feeling, the better you can identify and meet your needs. It takes self-awareness, respect, and practice. Each affirmation here is like a “note to self.” It’s a statement of what’s true and possible for you. It’s a way to validate the way you feel, so you can move forward.

I wrote this letter to someone I love who's struggling to change their life. Maybe, it's for you, or maybe it's for someone you know too. This letter is a simple reminder that there's hope. That love can be rekindled and small changes can make a big difference. Share this with whoever you think might need it.

This heartbeat meditation is a beautiful way to connect with your “inner flame” and the simple joy of being alive. It's uplifting and centering, as practical as it is sacred. As you sync with your inner rhythm, you might sense a flicker of light still on inside — even after everything, even the middle of everything.

Whether you want to get sober, stay sober, or take a sabbatical from substances for a while, I hope these positive affirmations for sobriety inspire you to love your decision, and life, even more. This is a reminder that feelings are transient and thoughts are malleable. It’s YOU who's powerful.

Judith Espinosa wrote The Awakening to help others who've endured great loss, illness, and heartbreak of any kind. People like you and me, who'd rather lay claim to this new life than live the rest of our days being victims of our circumstances. I’m happy and grateful to be able to share her poem here in full, with you.

Use these winter affirmations to help you better appreciate the season you're in. They're for your emotions... the ones that are hard to love. The ones that, when you sit with them and let them breathe and be, will teach you to see the beauty in almost anything. May this be a season of rooting, if not blooming.