By Erica Linson

In this beautiful season of resolutions and intentions, here’s a reflection on our ability to make the changes we wish to see—and be.

Resolutions are notoriously hard to keep, with only 9-12% of people succeeding. So, what might support our capacity to change? A very underappreciated yet essential element could make all the difference: our ability to relax.

When we relax, our parasympathetic nervous system takes over. This “rest and digest” response is the calming, healing counterpart to the “fight or flight” stress response, which often dominates our lives—whether from acute challenges or chronic, low-grade stress that wears on both our physical and mental well-being.

In this relaxation state, we gain access to profound internal resources. We’re less reactive, less anxious, and more present. Our cognitive function improves, our memory sharpens, and our thinking becomes clearer. Emotionally, we feel more regulated, more open to relationships—including the one we have with ourselves—and better able to tune into what we truly feel and want.

Relaxation also creates space between stimulus and response. Rather than reacting with our habitual patterns, we can pause, access creativity and imagination, and make intentional choices. This “pattern interrupt” opens the door to transformation.

When we feel stuck—whether in a rut, burdened by old stories, or locked in unhelpful behaviors—we often experience a sense of powerlessness. But change allows us to meet each moment with more choice, bringing a profound sense of agency.

This kind of responsibility—“the ability to respond”—starts with ourselves. When we understand our needs and wants, we can meet them, establish healthy boundaries, and further relax rather than being triggered by external stressors. Ideally, this process begins with enjoying and loving ourselves and extending that care outward to others.

If shedding stress or deepening relaxation is a goal for you this year, or if you’d like to explore a meditation practice, join the upcoming Zen Meditation Workshop with Erica Linson:

Saturdays – January 11, 18, & 25
2:00pm – 3:15pm
Yoga Studio
Members: Free | Non-Members: $105 for the series
Drop-in: Non-Members $40 (first class only)
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