In this episode of alignd., Erin is joined by Bry LeBlanc for a grounded conversation about why the start of the year so often feels off, and how to approach new beginnings without forcing change.

Released just days before the Human Design New Year (January 22), this episode reframes “new year energy” through a more natural, cyclical lens — one rooted in contraction, reflection, and intention rather than discipline and pressure.

In this episode, they explore:

• Why January 1 often creates false urgency — and what actually marks the start of a new cycle
• The Human Design New Year and Gate 41 (contraction) as a time for imagining, not executing
• The difference between discipline and devotion — and why devotion creates sustainable change
• How working with words (past, future, and the verb that connects them) can anchor real transformation
• Why nurturing yourself through discomfort is not optional, it’s essential

This conversation is practical, reflective, and honest — offering a different way to orient yourself to the year ahead without bypassing the integration your body and nervous system still need.

And if you've found your word for 2026, comment and let us know what it is!

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