The holidays are here with all the festivities, lights, decorations, and cheer. Thoughts of all the presents to wrap, food to prepare, family to visit begin to dizzyingly swirl in our heads. For some, the holiday rush brings out the champion multitasker in them – but for many it can cause a sense of being overwhelmed and lead to feelings of anxiety, or even depression and despair. During this time of year, stress can often trigger old behaviors and coping mechanisms, be it overindulging in holiday treats, bickering with a family member, or turning to alcohol or other substances to calm your nerves – all of which can lead to negative consequences or rob you of the joy of the holiday season.
To avoid these unhealthy behaviors and fully experience the joy of the holidays, take a moment each day to practice mindfulness. Mindfulness is simple. It is the act of focusing on the present moment you are in without judgement, regret, or guilt – it is simply accepting what is. Being mindful allows you to put all the expectations and hustle and bustle of the holidays aside so you can enjoy the moment. Being mindful is not difficult or complicated. Often it is a simple as taking a deep breath and appreciating the moment you are in.
Here are some tips on how to be mindful and make your holidays brighter.
Start your day with gratitude. Take a moment each morning and focus on the things in life you are grateful for. Writing them down is a great way to help focus on the things that really matter.
Unplug. Turn off your devices and shut off your screens. Notice what is going on around you. Tune into conversations. Enjoy the moment with others. Or look inward and enjoy the silence.
Focus on your senses. Notice the colors you see, the sounds you hear, the scents you smell and label them nonjudgmentally – I see multicolored lights. I hear music in the background. I smell cookies baking. Eat mindfully – sit down, chew slowly, and savor the flavors.
Accept imperfection. Imperfection is healthy and normal. Let go of preconceived expectations and focus on what really counts. Stop worrying about how you look, if the food is good enough, if the venue is perfect, or what others are experiencing. Instead, shift your attention to those you care about. Picture them and wish them well.
Respond with kindness. You can’t change how others react to stresses of the holiday season, but you can change how you respond. You never know what is going on with someone else. The holidays are especially difficult for those who have lost a loved one or are alone during a time when we are expected to be surrounded by family and friends. If an interaction with someone is stressful, take a moment to breathe and extend an act of kindness. It may truly brighten someone’s day, as well as reducing your own stress and overstimulation.
Take care of yourself. Eat healthy, exercise, take a hot shower, or luxuriate in a scented bubble bath. Steal a moment for yourself and practice self-compassion.
Breathe. Stop what you are doing, take a deep breath in and let it out slowly. The simple act of being mindful of your breath and taking the time to do so can have a calming effect.
Mindfulness has the potential of being a transformative experience in your life – especially during the holiday season. Take a moment to practice these tips and fully enjoy the peace, love, and joy of the season.