Instead of giving up things for the new year, why not let go? It can be the hardest thing to do in our asana practice. To let go of where we're holding on, whether that's tension in the body or the belief that we can't do a posture.

I like to share this Zen story in my yoga classes, because it perfectly illustrates how limiting it is to hold on to things in the past;

A senior monk and a junior monk were traveling together. At one point, they came to a river with a strong current. As the monks were preparing to cross the river, they saw a very young and beautiful woman also attempting to cross. The young woman asked if they could help her cross to the other side. The two monks glanced at one another because they had taken vows not to touch a woman. Then, without a word, the older monk picked up the woman, carried her across the river, placed her gently on the other side, and carried on his journey. The younger monk couldn’t believe what had just happened. After rejoining his companion, he was speechless, and an hour passed without a word between them. Two more hours passed, then three, finally the younger monk could not contain himself any longer, and blurted out “As monks, we are not permitted to touch a woman, how could you then carry that woman on your shoulders?” The older monk looked at him and replied, “Brother, I set her down on the other side of the river, why are you still carrying her?”

I love this story because it encourages us to live in the present moment. How often do we carry around past hurts, holding onto resentments when the only person we are really hurting is ourselves?

So, I invite you to let go of that which no longer serves you; disappointments (and there were a few in 2016), frustrations and even New Years Resolutions, where we traditionally punish ourselves by giving up things we like, and try to force a change in our lifestyle, and if these stats are reliable; succeeding 8% of the time. Miserable.

If you really want to make some positive changes for 2017, why not take some time to consider these questions;

What would make me happier?

What actions can I take to do the things that make me feel happy?

The world needs you to find answers to these questions. Think of that person at work who's always negative, nothing is ever good enough... they need you to show them there is another way.

Some inspiring words from a recent trip to Canggu, Bali. When we let go, we make space for something far more positive.

Here's a list to get you started

For 2017, I let go of;

• Setting myself up to fail with a detox, unrealistic gym routine

• The idea that I am not enough. I am enough.

• The need to look good. I’m going to try and do good.

• Finishing To Do lis...