Start the year grounded, centered, and in resonance with your intentions.

When I (Machelle) was at the Ayurvedic Center in Kerala, India this fall, one of the most meaningful parts of the experience was singing the sound of Om at sunset 108 times. We learned a simple way of counting on our fingers to keep track, and then we surrendered into the hum and vibration of the room - a collective sound bath created entirely by our own voices.

OM is traditionally expressed as the three-part sound A-U-M on the exhalation, followed by a silent pause on the inhale. This cycle reflects the arc of all aspects of life: a beginning, a sustaining period, a resolution, and a moment of rest before the next cycle begins. Even the etymology of Amen echoes this ancient sound. OM reminds us of the ongoing rhythm of birth, growth, maturation, release, and renewal.

I cannot think of a more meaningful way to welcome the new year than sharing this practice with our community - a sound bath created not by instruments, but by our own voices.

If you wish, bring a symbol or item to reprsent your intention and add to our collective ritual circle. Or simply come and see what unfolds for you.

Through 108 rounds of chanting, the steady vibration of OM naturally soothes the nervous system, gently activating the pathways that support calm, emotional balance, and a sense of steady presence. This creates a spacious inner environment to connect with the qualities you wish to carry into the year ahead.

Following the chanting, we’ll enter an extended silent savasana, allowing the vibration to settle and offering time for inward listening. Rather than setting resolutions, this practice invites you to step into the winter season with nourishing intentions that honor stillness, rest, and personal growth.

As we conclude, you’re welcome to leave in meditative silence, carrying the resonance of the practice with you, or stay for an optional sharing circle to gently voice and witness intentions in community.

This event is free and open to all. Optional cash or check donations will be collected for the Brunswick Beacon Food Bank, as we close the practice by nourishing our own and each other’s nervous systems—and stepping with clarity into the new year.