My wife recently told me that 2025 was the "Year of the Snake," which signifies a time for shedding.

I don't know if there could be a more accurate explanation of 2025 to me.

It was a bizarre year where I stepped away from some of the behind the scenes stuff that happens at Man Flow Yoga more than ever before. This created new ways for stress to "heat seek" me out.

And these new avenues of stress, fear, and uncertainty led me to try different approaches to life, business, and most importantly, my mental and emotional wellbeing.

Long story short, I'm not moving into 2026 with a massive 12-step action plan. Maybe you aren't either.

And that's okay.

In fact, it might even be what's required.

This is a vulnerable solo episode - and I hope you find it helpful if your 2025 was also weighed down (or wildly different) because of the "Year of the Snake."

Here are the highlights from this episode:

• Why you might be more ready for 2026 than you think (I went through this exact same experience too) (0:40)

• How to better balance being proud of your progress with the shame that comes from your lack of progress (3:32)

• What 2025 being the "Year of the Snake" means for your personal growth and development (4:00)

• The weird way doing "more" is a sneaky warning signal from your nervous system designed to create a false sense of control (without generating better results) (4:33)

• The story behind why I've been plagued with existential anxiety the last few months (6:04)

• How having a conversation with your fears quietly and snugly tucks them into the bed in the back of your mind (instead of in the driver seat of your behavior) (10:05)

• Why faith is a better and more reliable ally for your emotional wellbeing than certainty is (11:10)

Listen now!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

1. Follow David's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@DavidMausJr: If you have any questions about cold plunging, using a sauna, or DIYing your own biohacking tools, David's super approachable and ready to answer your questions.

2. Man Flow Yoga Events: On February 28, I'm hosting a Saturday Workshop in Denver, CO. If you want to do yoga with me and get feedback in real-time, get your ticket here: https://shop.manflowyoga.com/collections/in-person-events/products/mfy-workshop-denver-february-2026-02-28

3. Man Flow Yoga: - Start your 7-day free trial and see how yoga can eliminate aches and pains better than other types of exercise here: https://shrtlnk.co/kP8M7