In Spain, we finish the year with grapes and a big party. Yet the first days of January carry no particular significance beyond the private resolutions we each set for the new year.
In Japan, the entire month of January and especially the first three days constitute oshōgatsu, a suite of family celebrations that are the most important in the Japanese calendar. Families and friends gather to play, exchange gifts and share special dishes. It is the continuation of the Japanese year-end, during which cleansing and purification practices are carried out in homes to close one year and begin the next on a good footing.
During these early January celebrations, the Japanese understand that they are sowing all the good that will unfold throughout the year. Azumi Uchitani, a specialist in Japanese culture and former Shinto priestess, explains that oshōgatsu captures the essence of yoshuku, a attitude of anticipatory celebration for what is to come.
Living mindfully through this period helps to direct the vital energy and to set the tone for the year ahead.
January as a spiritual starting point
For Uchitani, January is a month rich in meaning, both personally and culturally. While globally it is commonly regarded as a time to set goals and begin new cycles, in Japan this notion runs deeper. There, January lays the groundwork on which the rest of the year will be built and marks a period in which expressing gratitude toward all who love and help us takes centre stage.
The Japanese view this month as an opportunity to leave the old behind and make space for a fresh start. This optimistic mindset accompanies families during the early days of the year and underpins the belief that the way we live this period can influence the rest of the cycle.
The three days that determine how your year will unfold
“Como decía mi abuela, la forma cómo vives los primeros días del año marcar tu camino el resto del año”, explica Uchitani en su libro Yoshuku. Por decirlo de alguna manera, te puedes tomar esos días como un entrenamiento de las virtudes que quieres mantener a lo largo del año, como una actitud alegre y optimista, entregarse al bienestar de los demás y a realizar los proyectos personales por encima de cualquier obstáculo.
The grandmother of Uchitani told her that the way you get through this period influences important aspects such as health, prosperity and relationships. This deeply rooted teaching has accompanied the author throughout her life.
Unki, the energy that helps you to succeed
According to Uchitani, oshōgatsu is a time dedicated to increasing unki, the vital energy or favourable energy. This energy influences all aspects of life, from emotional wellbeing to the opportunities that present themselves. That is why the early days of the year are lived with intention, care and joy.
This approach invites us to ask what tone we want to set and which small gesture could help us connect with a brighter new beginning. Small rituals can help you start the year with that intention:
- Take a moment to thank what you have lived before setting new goals.
- Organise a corner of your home to represent that renewal. Then gradually proceed to the rest of the house and keep that attitude throughout the year.
- Choose a word or intention to guide your energy for the year. You can write it in a private journal to keep it ever present.
- Set aside time to be with those who bring you calm and joy.
Introducing these gestures, inspired by the perspective shared by Azumi Uchitani, allows the year to begin from a more conscious, serene and purposeful place.
