It is a whirlwind holiday season, especially Christmas. Shopping, planning, decorating and attending countless events can quickly turn the joy of the season into sheer stress. But, Christmas doesn’t need to be crazy. Taking the time to mindfully embrace the holidays can greatly benefit in the direction of a peaceful and balanced holiday season, instead of another exhausted holiday season.
Why Mindfulness Matters During the Holidays
The Modern Christmas Frenzy
The decades have seen Christmas change. A high stakes season, where pleasure has been traded for pressure, and freedom for fear: the simple celebration of tradition and togetherness has been flipped on its head. There is so much expectation to bring the perfect gifts, and host the best parties, and make the most magical memories with the people we love. That’s no wonder we often feel more stressed than joyful.
The Benefits of a Mindful Holiday Season
Mindfulness means taking into account your feelings without judgement, and being in the moment. Practicing mindfulness during Christmas can:
- Reduce stress and anxiety.
- This will help you to enjoy small moments a bit more.
Developing meaningful connections will strengthen relationships. - They will help you align your actions with your true values.
How to Create a Mindful Holiday Season
1. Set Intentions for the Season
Rather than going head first into holiday preparations, take a minute to think. Ask yourself:
What I value most about Christmas?
What do I want to believe about myself this season?
So what memories do I want to create?
If you can just write down your intentions when the chaos is about to overwhelm you, this can help.
2. Simplify Gift-Giving
Gift giving can be one of the worst parts of Christmas. To make it more mindful:
Embrace Quality Over Quantity
Instead of buying loads of small gifts you can give just a few more meaningful gifts. If you have nothing else, think of handmade items, experiences, or something of sentimental value.
Set Clear Boundaries
Have a budget and stay within it. Tell family and friends upfront about your approach to gift giving so there won’t be any misunderstandings.
Wrap with Intention
Instead of barreling through wrapping, make it into a meditative activity. Use eco friendly stuff and take your time on each package to make them special.
3. Don’t Miss Holiday Gatherings
Connection with the loved ones is what is the real joy of the season! To foster meaningful interactions:
Limit Distractions
Do not use your phone during meals or after conversations. Be completely absorbed in the people around you.
Listen Actively
Do not plan your response when someone speaks. Have conversations with thought questions and interest.
Practice Gratitude
But let’s take a minute to appreciate the people in your life. Have you ever told someone they did a good job, or they had a great idea… or thanked someone? A small thing can make a big impact.
4. Prioritize Self-Care
Easy to forget the holidays also, but, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Make time for self-care by:
Scheduling “Me Time”
Carve out time in your calendar for things that can recharge you—maybe you’ll read, meditate, or take a quiet walk.
Setting Boundaries
Decline invitations or requests politely that don’t fit your energy or values. It’s okay to say no.
Nourishing Your Body
Midst the joy of holiday treats, take care to eat wellbalanced meals, drink plenty of fluids, and get enough sleep.
5. Find Joy in Small Moments
Savoring the present is what we call mindfulness. Look for beauty and joy in simple things:
There was the smell of freshly baked cookies.
- The lights on a Christmas tree.
- Children laughing while playing snow.
So take a couple deep breaths and just let your body soak these fleeting, but magical moments in.
6. Create Meaningful Traditions
It’s the traditions that make the holiday season so unforgettable. Think about what traditions really bring you joy and what traditions feel like you’re off to a chore. Consider:
Intention — Bring in a gratitude practice, such as sharing what you’re thankful for when dining at the table together.
I wanted to have a low key evening to watch some of my favorite Christmas movies.
- The act of volunteering as a family to help your community.
Overcoming Challenges to a Mindful Christmas
Handling Holiday Stress
One thing is for sure: stress will come, but mindful can assist you in handling it. When you feel overwhelmed:
Try pausing and taking five deep breaths.
Your first step is to try and identify what’s triggering your stress.
- One small, manageable task at a time will get you back to some sense of control.
Dealing with Difficult Relationships
Gathering with family can be tense. To maintain your peace:
— Come into conversation with curiosity not judgment.
If certain topics start to create conflict, set boundaries.
- Practise compassion towards people around you, and towards yourself.
Managing Expectations
You don’t have to need everything to be perfect. Memories get better if they have imperfections. Remember, it’s about the love and the connection.
Bringing Mindfulness Into the New Year
A mindful Christmas is beautiful because it defines the tone for the year to come. If you prioritize mindfulness during the holidays, you’ll start the new year restored and balanced instead of wiped out. Take these practices with you, as you set intentions for the months to come.
The holiday season is supposed to be that time of the year when you celebrate magic, warmth and connection with your loved ones; if you let it be. Choosing mindfulness will help you save the joy and peace of the Christmas and enjoy the real Christmas spirit, not being sucked into the everyday chaos. Make the conscious decision this year to slow down, breathe, and really connect to the moments that are really worth remembering. What you will discover is the most precious gift you will present to yourself and to others, that of presence.
LekFex 