At close of year, we often find ourselves thinking ahead to next year. We think about all things we didn't accomplish this year, and vow to accomplish them next year. Few of us take time to reflect on past year and look at our successes and experiences that we have learned from.

Before you start thinking about New Year's Resolutions, take some time to meditate on year that's gone by. Doing so will allow you to reflect on what's important to you, and to create a meaningful plan for New Year. Set aside some time to think about, write about, or talk about your answers to following questions.

Looking back on 2004...

"You are what you eat." Right, but only 50% right, according to ancient healing tradition of ayurveda. The combination of what you eat and what your body does with what you eat is what actually shapes health and well-being. According to ayurveda, you are unique, and your dietary needs are unique too, determined by your body constitution, age, season, your environment and your needs for balance at any given time. But there are some diet and digestion principles that are universally applicable. Here we present five that you can begin any time...the quick and-simple way to incorporate ayurvedic way of eating into your daily diet. Once you start seeing results, you can delve more deeply into doshas—ayurvedic body types—and tailor a diet and digestion routine that's best for you.

1. Add some zest to your life with lemon!

Add freshly squeezed juice of half a lemon to a large cup of really warm water and drink first thing in morning.

Fresh lemon juice in moderation is good for all doshas. Lemon is a wonderful aid to internal cleansing. Antibacterial and antiseptic, lemon retards presence of disease-causing bacteria in digestive tract. It is also a digestion enhancer and helps reduce bloating and flatulence. It kindles a lethargic appetite, getting digestive juices flowing. And it aids elimination, so your digestive tract is naturally flushed clear every morning. As an antioxidant, lemon helps fight disease-causing free radicals in body. It helps keep your skin clear and your eyes sparkling.

More ways to use fresh lemon: Add lemon zest to your herbal tea. Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over your lentils. Skip fatty prepared dressing and opt for a squeeze of fresh lemon and a dash of extra-virgin olive oil over your salad.

2. Say "No ice, please!"

According to ayurveda, iced beverages, especially with or right after a meal, can really slow down digestion. Imagine pouring cold water over burning coals set up to cook your food. That's effectively what you do to your digestive fires when you gulp down iced beverages with your meal. Instead, opt for digestion-enhancing drinks. Warm water infused with fragrant fennel helps enhance digestion, prevents bloating, and freshens your breath naturally. Cumin tea, or ginger-mint tea made with fresh ginger root slices and fresh mint leaves are great alternatives.

Warm herb/spice teas stimulate digestion, help your body assimilate nutrients from foods you eat and help flush toxins from system.

To make herb or spice teas, bring water to a boil, add fresh herbs or spices, turn off heat, and cover. Let steep for 5-7 minutes, strain and enjoy.

3. Invite all your senses to table.