I’ve always loved talking about—and actively celebrating—seasonal transitions. Whether it's through a yoga class or a simple journaling practice (you’ll find some of my favourite prompts below!), these moments are the perfect opportunity to pause and reflect. I like to do little "life reviews" not just on New Year's Eve or my birthday, but throughout the year to check in with myself, realign with my goals, and adjust my course if needed.

And although I’m no longer a student or working in academia, I still find myself following the academic calendar. Every September-October brings a familiar sense of excitement, almost as if a new chapter is unfolding. So, it feels fitting that my very first blog post is all about the power of new beginnings!

If you're a student, postgrad, or early-career researcher, the start of the academic year can feel particularly significant. Whether you’re a freshman, transitioning into postgraduate study, starting a PhD project, or even entering the job market after graduation, these moments come with both excitement and a little uncertainty. But they're more than just milestones; they’re opportunities to redefine your path and realign with the person—and the scientist—you want to become.

The Science of the Fresh Start Effect

During these transitions, we tap into something psychologists call the “fresh start effect”. It’s the idea that certain moments in time—like the beginning of a new week, a birthday, or the start of a season—give us a sense of a clean slate. They inspire us to make positive changes and pursue goals with renewed energy. 

This is also true during life’s big transitions, like starting a PhD, or a new job. Research shows that these milestones help us mentally separate from our past selves, allowing us to leave behind old mistakes or habits. We feel more confident, more focused, and better equipped to make meaningful changes in our lives (though let’s be honest, this motivation can sometimes fade faster than we’d like!).

Aligning with the Energy of the Season

With the recent autumn equinox, nature offers a beautiful metaphor for fresh starts and the transformation they can bring. As the leaves begin to fall, autumn invites us to shed what no longer serves us—whether that’s draining habits, imposter syndrome, or the tendency to overwork and burn out. 

This seasonal shift is the perfect time to reflect on your life: what aligns with your goals and values, and what doesn’t? Maybe it’s time to let go of certain mindsets or routines that are holding you back. Autumn is about making space for new growth, and this reflective energy is perfect for reassessing where you’re heading, both personally and professionally.

Living Authentically Through Daily Habits

New beginnings don’t have to mean making huge changes overnight. In fact, we all know how quickly big New Year's resolutions can fade by mid-January! Instead, it’s about making small, intentional shifts in your daily life that keep you aligned with your goals. 

This is the perfect time to ask yourself: are your habits helping you become the person and scientist you want to be? Are your routines supporting your personal and professional goals, or are they driven by outdated obligations? 

Whether it's dedicating more time to mindfulness, setting clearer boundaries between work and rest, or developing new skills for the next stage of your career, even the smallest changes can bring a deeper sense of fulfilment and alignment.

As we move into this new season, take some time to think about how you can harness the energy of fresh starts. It’s not just about setting intentions—it’s about acting in ways that truly nourish your authentic self.

Looking for inspiration? Here are some journaling prompts to help guide your reflection:

We also chatted about the power of new beginnings in the new episode of the “Moms, Mats and Manuscripts” podcast! You can listen to it here.

I’m here to help you balance the demands of academic life with mindfulness and personal growth. Whether you’re navigating a new beginning or looking for ways to stay grounded, yoga can help you find your center and live authentically. Let’s embrace these fresh starts together - join me for a class or let’s chat about other ways I can support you!