Where did the worldly tradition stem from?

New year’s resolutions are an ancient practice dating back 4,000 years to the Babylonian civilization. They left records of new-year festivities known as Akitu, which is an agricultural celebration and the onset of the farming season in the Spring. Their “resolutions” included planting crops, crowning their king, and promises to repay their debts and return borrowed farming equipment. Ancient Romans practiced similar resolutions having established January 1 as the start of the new year. January was named for Janus, the two-faced Roman god, whom the Romans would make sacrifices for and promises to fulfill good deeds for the coming year. In the medieval era, knights renewed their oath to chivalry by taking the “peacock vow” at the start of the new year. Early Christians held traditions to reflect on the past and plan for a better future.

How have New Year Resolutions evolved?

Cultures all over the world still practice the tradition. Over time, resolutions became less spiritual and religiously centered. Today, New Year resolutions are a more secular practice. Instead of making promises to gods, people make promises to themselves with a universal focus on self-improvement.

How MOSH can help with your New Year resolutions

1. Learn something new
   Discover the deep sea to the depths in outer space across three levels of exhibits. Venture through both core and traveling exhibits including Atlantic Tails, Currents of Time, Space Science Gallery, Florida Naturalist’s Center, and more. Attend a science show in the JEA Science Theater, participate in an animal encounter with a naturalist, or sit back in the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium for an educational show in the dome.
2. Volunteer and give back to the community
   Donate your time as a volunteer and be responsible for facilitating a meaningful and memorable experience for guests of the Museum. Volunteers come from all walks of life and have opportunities to work large events, teach children, lead group tours, and more. MOSH’s adult and youth volunteers and interns help carry out the Museum’s mission to inspire the joy of lifelong learning. Learn new skills, make professional connections, and creating lasting memories. No time to volunteer? Consider donating a monetary gift to the Museum or supporting the Florida Naturalist’s Center by donating through its Amazon Wishlist or Chewy list found here.
3. Find a new hobby
   MOSH offers programs that allow visitors to explore new experiences.

• MOSH After Dark is an after-hours program for adults 21 and up. The program offers the latest topics in science, history, and art with hands-on workshops that also include enlightening conversations, Museum exploration, and food and drinks. Past programs included Candy Engineering with Sweet Pete’s Candy, Tip-Sea Turtles – Painting Workshop, Candle Making with Wick, and more. See upcoming 2022 MOSH After Dark programs here.
• Mind Over Matter is a health series program focusing on nurturing the body and mind through live demonstrations with certified yoga instructors. This program alternates its yoga location between the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium and the Rooftop. See upcoming Mind Over Matter programs here.