If 2025 felt tumultuous, you were probably hoping 2026 would arrive with a sense of refresh. But if the start of this year has felt sluggish, the Lunar Zodiac might be to blame: the new year doesn’t officially begin until February 17, when we transition from the Year of the Snake to the Year of the Horse.
The snake, long associated with transformation and renewal, invites reflection and release — a time to shed old habits and physical clutter before moving forward. In contrast, the Horse embodies momentum, ambition, and action, propelling energy outward and encouraging bold steps. So as we teeter closer to the Year of the Horse, we’re bringing you some practical tips to undergo one final shed, in order to step into this new era with clarity and purpose. Here’s how.
1. Declutter your physical space
If the thought of sorting through your entire house makes you sweat, start small with a single drawer, a shelf, or your bedside table. Take stock of anything you haven’t reached for in the last six months, and ask yourself: “Does this bring me joy or serve a purpose?” Donate, recycle, or discard anything that doesn’t meet this criteria. Clearing your environment has an immediate psychological effect, creating a sense of order and calm that allows new energy to enter.
2. Clear digital clutter
Delete emails, photos and apps that are no longer relevant. Unfollow accounts that leave you scrolling out of habit rather than inspiration, and organise bookmarks so everything you interact with online feels purposeful. Even 20 minutes of digital decluttering can reset your mind for forward momentum.
3. Let go emotionally
Identify one or two relationships, patterns, or grudges that feel heavy. Write a short letter (that you don’t have to send) acknowledging what you want to release. Then physically let it go — shred, burn safely, or tear up the paper. This tangible act creates a sense of closure and signals to your mind that you’re making space for new energy.
4. Shift old habits
Pick one habit that no longer serves you — it could be a tendency to overcommit, procrastinate, or scroll endlessly before bed — and replace it with a small, positive ritual. For example, you might:
- Swap evening scrolling for five-minutes of reading or journaling
- Replace your afternoon sweet treat with a piece of fruit
- Commit to a 10-minute walk after lunch
The idea is that small, intentional changes compound and create momentum that carries into the new year.
5. Set intentions for the Year of the Horse
While letting go of what no longer serves you, so is looking forward with optimism. Try writing down 3–5 specific goals or actions for the Horse year. Keep them tangible and manageable, like reconnecting with an old friend, or committing to a hobby one night a week.
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Feature image by Elyse Turton via Unsplash.
