Hello Reader,
The start of a new year often brings a mix of emotions—hope, curiosity, hesitation, and sometimes quiet fatigue. New routines, new expectations, new environments. Even when change is welcome, it asks us to pay attention to what’s working—and what isn’t.
This past year, I was reminded of that in an unexpected way while traveling to Germany for the first time.
Everywhere we stayed, shared beds were made the same way: two people, two comforters.
No tug-of-war.
No negotiating warmth.
Just shared space with individualized comfort.
At first, it surprised me. Then it felt obvious. Two people can share a bed without sharing the same sensory needs. I loved the idea so much that I brought it home—literally, from IKEA—and it changed how we sleep. We rest better. We’re less irritated. And the environment finally works with us, not against us.
As an occupational therapist, this clicked instantly.
This is adaptation.
This is activity analysis.
This is OT.
Meaningful Change…
—Doesn’t always require a reset or a big overhaul. Often, it starts with noticing small points of friction in everyday routines—sleep, transitions, meals—and making thoughtful adjustments. A different blanket. A small shift in timing. A tweak to the environment.
As we move into a new year, I want to offer a gentler question than “What needs fixing?”
Instead, try asking:
What has already helped us this past year?
What’s worth carrying forward?
✨Sometimes, meaningful improvement really is as simple as getting your own blanket.
If you’d like support reflecting on routines, environments, and adaptations that fit your family’s real life, I’d be honored to support you.
Make 2026 a year of intentional choices, gentle adjustments, and meaningful change—one small shift at a time. Hear more about my thoughts on meaningful change at the blog and listen to the audio for more insights.
Warmly,
Aya Porté
Occupational Therapist & Founder, Koi Wellness
