New Year's Resolution - Journaling

I have a hard time setting intentions. And setting goals. I usually set a really easy New Year’s resolution. No pressure, no risk.

But this year, I’m inspired to do something new… journaling.

I have journals, I’ve journaled. But I’ve never made journaling a daily practice.

So this is my 2026 New Year’s resolution. And I just-so-happened to win the raffle at the InTouch + Motion’s Wellness Day!

Now I have two beautiful journals to work with (and a fantastic set of fine tip markers, among other wonderful things). I’m starting with the 5-minutes a day journal - which has questions you answer and topics to think about in the morning and evening each day.

I’ll keep you posted on my progress… but for this post, I’d like to focus on an offering from InTouch + Motion that I just found out about that can help us set our intentions and practice journaling!

It’s led by Ciera Shimkus at InTouch + Motion, a licensed therapist and expressive arts facilitator. I’ve been to Ciera’s classes, and they flow between intuitive yoga movements with breath and an amazing sound bath that allows you to relax into the new body you have created.

The intention setting through journaling and art meditation allows you to go as deep as you like into topics of your own choosing, the things you’re working on, or maybe the resolutions you’re trying this year.

I’m excited to share this with those in the Chicagoland area (and those traveling here)! I’ll see you there :)

~ Laurie

Yoga + Sound Bath: Creativity, Movement, and Reflection

A monthly reset in Chicago: intention-setting journaling, gentle yoga + breathwork, then a restorative sound bath for deep rest.

Overview
Join us for a biweekly evening yoga and sound bath experience designed to help you reconnect with yourself through movement, creativity, and reflective practices.

This series is here to create a consistent space for anyone seeking community connection, tools to support a personal mindful practice, or a gentle rhythm to stay accountable to their well-being. Each session blends yoga and breathwork with creative intention-setting, and closes with a restorative sound bath.

Creative practices can make yoga and meditation more accessible for different types of people, and offer a simple way to arrive, reflect, and reset.

In each 75-minute session, you’ll be guided through a welcoming, trauma-informed experience that includes:

• Intention setting through journaling or art meditation

• Yoga + breathwork (asanas)

• Savasana with a sound bath for deep rest and integration
  
  

Ciera’s style is influenced by restorative yoga, Kundalini-inspired practices, and Hatha yoga.

These sessions are ideal for anyone seeking:

• A more personal and creative approach to yoga

• A safe space for body-mind connection

• A grounding and restorative reset No prior yoga or art experience is necessary. All bodies and identities are welcome.
  
  

Led by:
Ciera Shimkus, LCPC, REAT, RYT-200
Licensed therapist and expressive arts facilitator blending the mental health principles of yoga, breathwork, creativity, and sound to support self-discovery, restoration, and self-care.

Dates & Time

Thursdays at 7:15 PM Starting Thursday, January 22, 2026 (Additional dates will be listed on Eventbrite as part of the ongoing series.)

Location

In Touch & Motion
4028 W Irving Park Rd. Loft B, Chicago, IL 60641

Note: This space is only accessible via stairs to the second floor.

Arrival Note

We recommend arriving about 15 minutes early to settle in and get comfortable before we begin. Out of respect for the group experience, doors will close promptly 5 minutes after start time so the session can start smoothly and without interruptions.

Cost (3-tier option)

Tier 1: Community Ticket | $10 For anyone who would benefit from a lower-cost option.

Tier 2: Standard Ticket | $20 Covers the true cost of the session and space.

Tier 3: Supporter Ticket | $30 Helps sustain the series and makes community tickets possible.

What to Bring

A journal, water bottle, and a mat if you have one (mats available on-site too).
Optional: layers or something cozy for savasana, pillow & blanket.

Important Notes

This is a wellness-based session, not a therapy service. While it is facilitated by a licensed or license-eligible mental health professional, participation does not establish a client-therapist relationship.

Contact for questions

info@intouchandmotion.com

More events from this organizer

Authentic Movement and Networking Gathering

Sat, Jan 24, 11:00 AM

In Touch & Motion • Chicago, IL

Free

Guardians of the Spirit World: Xoloitzcuintli and Day of the Dead

Written by Stevie McCulloch for Waggel

“Día de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, is a Mexican festival celebrated on the 1st and 2nd of November every year and is dedicated to honouring deceased loved ones. Combining pre-Hispanic traditions and Catholic influences, the festival embraces both life and death, acknowledging that death is merely a part of the natural cycle of existence.

During the Day of the Dead celebrations, families create ofrendas (altars) adorned with marigolds, candles, food and personal items to welcome the spirits of the departed back to the realm of the living for a night of remembrance and celebration.

Animals, particularly dogs, play a significant role in this tradition. In many indigenous cultures, dogs are seen as guides for souls on their journey to the afterlife. Among these, the Xoloitzcuintli (Xolo, pronounced ‘Show low’) dog, an ancient breed with deep cultural roots in Mexico, is particularly revered. In Aztec mythology, Xolos were believed to protect and guide souls through the underworld, linking them intimately with both life and death.

Xolos are one of the oldest dog breeds, with a vast and rich history spanning over 3,500 years. Known for their distinct, hairless appearance, Xolos were not only just companion dogs to the ancient Aztecs but also held with great respect and deep spiritual significance.

The Xolo was believed to be a sacred animal gifted to humans by the gods for guidance and protection. In Aztec society, Xolos were considered to have healing powers and were involved in many rituals. However, their spiritual importance reigned supreme as they were thought to accompany the souls of the deceased on their journey to the afterlife.

According to Aztec mythology, when someone died, their soul embarked on a journey to Mictlán, the underworld. This journey was not an easy one, and the soul was required to cross nine rivers before reaching eternal rest. Because of their divine connection to the gods, Xolos helped these souls cross the rivers and protected them from harm on the way. It was thought that only those kind to dogs in life would receive assistance from a Xolo in death.

In modern Día de los Muertos celebrations, the Xoloitzcuintli continues to symbolise the connection between life, death and the afterlife. Though the breed’s original spiritual role has evolved, their presence in the festival remains strong.

Xolos are often represented in altars (ofrendas) dedicated to the deceased, either in the form of figurines or images. In some regions, families still believe that the Xolo’s spirit accompanies their loved ones back to the world of the living during the festival, acting as a bridge between realms. This enduring symbolism reflects the Xolo’s sacred status in Mexican culture.

Xolos are especially honoured in rural or traditional communities where ancient customs are closely preserved. In states like Michoacán and Oaxaca, where Día de los Muertos is celebrated with immense reverence, the Xolo's imagery can be found in artwork, sculptures and ceremonial offerings. These communities recognise the Xolo as a spiritual protector, much like their ancestors did, and continue to include the dog in their observance of the Day of the Dead. The breed remains an enduring symbol of life, death and the journey between them, celebrated each year in this sacred tradition.