From department stores placing holiday decorations on display by September to companies reminding you to order that special gift by November, it is no wonder the holiday season creates a wealth of stress. To ensure an experience of gusto during this time of year, below are a few tips on how to stay zen from during the holiday season.
Establish Your Purpose
One of my go-to approaches before any vacation or holiday is to set my purpose for the time shared with family and friends. Maybe it is cooking with an in-law, talking about books or history with a family member, playing games with the little tots or participating in a 5K with a cousin. Establishing purpose is a mindful way create balance in holiday chaos.
Acknowledge Your Feelings
With that holiday rush, it is only natural that one starts to feel stressed, overwhelmed, anxious, and lethargic. When you are in this state-of-mind, remove yourself from the situation and focus on deep breathing with essential oils, read an affirmation to re-center, or listen to calming music. Be sure to acknowledge your feelings, but allow them to leave and drift so that you can move forward with joyful energy.
Ensure a Miracle Mind
During the holiday season, I strongly advocate one bringing their journal, tarot cards, crystals, oils, meditation music or yoga mat. Such resources can hep you create the sacred space for a mental re-set.
Relish “me” Time
This aspect can go hand-in-hand with remaining mindfully aware. With the holiday frenzy, be sure to make the time and space for just you. Either it is a moment for yoga and meditation, or simple walk. Tiny moments of “me” time can add up to larger moments of zen time.
Remain Thoughtful
The holidays are stressful for everyone, not just you. Therefore, remain mindful of how others are feeling. Be an ear to someone in need or shoulder for one to lean on. Show compassion for others as that energy of care will radiate throughout the environment.
Have an Attitude of Gratitude
At the beginning and end of the day, acknowledge and be grateful for having the opportunity to spend time with family and friends. Life is precious, so do not take time or people for granted. Many folks out there have no family or place to go for the holidays, so be grateful that you do by instilling actions and words of gratitude.