From the Year of the Snake to the Year of the Horse: Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Move Forward (Without the Overwhelm)

emmastaplesfitness
Jan 26
4 min read

If you’re reading this in late January, let me guess… the New Year, New Me noise has started to fade. The all‑or‑nothing challenges, the extreme promises, the guilt‑fuelled resolutions – most of them have quietly slipped away.

And honestly? That’s not a failure. That’s wisdom kicking in.

Here at BodyBlitz Fitness, I work with women every single week who want to feel stronger, healthier, more energised and more confident – but without burning themselves out in the process. Women who are done with quick fixes and ready for something sustainable.

So let’s talk about why now – not 1st January – is actually the best time to start.

Shedding the Year of the Snake 🐍

The snake symbolises shedding, release and renewal. And for many women, the start of the year has been exactly that – a time of reflection.

You may have already:

Let go of unrealistic expectations
Recognised what hasn’t worked in the past
Realised you don’t want another year of extremes
Felt overwhelmed by conflicting fitness and wellness advice

That pause matters. It’s part of the process.

In women’s health and wellness, we often forget that awareness comes before action. You don’t need to rush straight into doing – you need clarity first.

And that’s what January has quietly given you.

Moving into the Energy of the Horse 🐎

The horse represents forward momentum, strength, freedom and steady power.

Not chaos. Not exhaustion. Not punishment.

Just purposeful movement.

This is where we stop shedding… and start moving forward.

Late January and early February are a sweet spot for change because:

Your nervous system has calmed after the festive rush
You’re thinking more clearly
Motivation is becoming more intentional, not emotional
You’re ready for structure – but the right kind

This is the moment where consistency can actually stick.

Why Steady Always Wins (Especially for Women)

As a women’s health, fitness and wellness coach, I see this pattern year after year.

Extreme plans fail because they ignore:

Hormones
Stress levels
Energy fluctuations
Busy lives
Perimenopause and menopause realities

What does work?

✔️ Strength training that builds lean muscle and supports bones ✔️ Low‑impact movement that protects joints ✔️ Gentle cardio that supports heart health without over‑stressing the body ✔️ Consistent routines that fit real life ✔️ Support, accountability and community

This is exactly why I encourage women to go steady, especially after the New Year overwhelm.

Progress doesn’t come from doing more – it comes from doing what you can consistently.

A Personal Note: Why This Matters to Me Right Now

As I write this, I’m fast approaching my 55th birthday at the end of this month.

And I’ll be honest with you – this stage of life has been a powerful teacher.

I know first-hand what it feels like to:

Notice changes in energy and recovery
Feel your body respond differently to stress
Realise that doing more isn’t the answer anymore
Understand that strength, mobility and consistency matter more than ever

This isn’t about fighting ageing. It’s about supporting your body through it.

At 55, I’m not interested in punishment workouts or extreme plans. I care about feeling strong, capable, energised and able to keep doing what I love – teaching, moving, supporting other women and showing up fully in my life.

And that personal experience shapes everything I offer at BodyBlitz Fitness.