Friend,
Shopping for the perfect gifts and then wrapping them, cooking for family get togethers, Christmas tree shopping, decorating inside and out, attending holiday gatherings, yankee swaps, Christmas plays, volunteering, and so much more. Are you tired just thinking about all that needs to be done to "enjoy" the holidays?
Christmas isn't just a day. It's a feeling.
Actually, it's a lot of feelings: Love, peace, hope, joy and contentment. And contentment can be particularly important because if we're happy in the moment we're in, then love, peace, hope and joy will naturally find us.
Instead of winding up, we might consider winding down. I know that's not going to get the things on your to-do list checked off, but it might make the season a little more magical.
So how do we accomplish this at the busiest time of the year? It might be easier than you think. Here are a few of my holiday habits you might try. Or create your own!
- If you have a Christmas tree, take a few moments to look at each ornament. Remind yourself of where it came from. Was it a gift, did you buy it while on vacation, did your kids or grandkids make it? Savoring special moments allows us to be more present which means less time rehashing the past or worrying about the future.
- When you're out at a holiday gathering, try not to hop from one person to the next trying to speak with everyone. Single out a couple of people who you'd really like to connect with and enjoy a little one on one time with them. Show them how much you care by asking questions about their family, pets, job or whatever is important to them. Practice active listening. You'll enjoy yourself a whole lot more by giving your time and attention to a few people and won't feel stressed trying to rush from one conversation to the next.
- Interrupt your day with little reminders to be present. Set an alarm on your phone or use an app like Mind Jogger. Giving your brain a break can go a long way in refreshing you. It's also a good way to slow down for a few moments throughout the day without using a whole lot of time.
- Start and end your day thinking of five things you're truly grateful for. Practicing gratitude not only improves your physical health, it improves your relationships, boosts your self-esteem, helps you sleep better, and increases mental strength. I also find that starting my day with gratitude sets the tone for the day and ending with it helps me fall asleep much faster.
Do you have a favorite way to savor the season? I'd love to hear about it. Please feel free to reply with any words of wisdom you may have and I'll share in an upcoming newsletter.
Wishing you and yours a blessed, peaceful and joyful Christmas season.
Much love, |
