The first goal of the year should be to take care of your mind, body and spirit. A big part of that is eating healthfully, exercising and practicing good karma.

Don't forget to take a break to relax and clear your mind. Because we're cleaning out our houses anyway, moving around furniture and such, this is a logical time to find a soothing corner in your living space and make it your own.

Take a day to paint and decorate an end table and comfy chair in your favorite fabric or paint color, crack open a new journal, grab a juicy ink pen and let your mind wander — even if it is for just 15 minutes a day. Part of that process should involve candles.

The flickering flames of tea lights do wonders to set the mood, especially if you choose your favorite scent and dress up the tin containers with strips of decorative paper. Set the candles on a mirror and reflections will quadruple.

Always use caution around candles; extinguish them when you leave the area.

DIRECTIONS

Cut paper into strips measuring a half-inch wide by 5 inches long. Start with one strip and flip it over so the backside is facing up. Rub the glue stick over the paper and carefully, neatly, wrap it around the tea light. Hold in place with fingers until the paper is fully secured. Make sure the paper does not go over the top edge of the tea light. If it does, use scissors to trim. Repeat for remaining tea lights. Set in the center of the mirror and light candles.

Other ideas: Use the same paper to cover a blank journal or pencil cup.