Tuesday, March 29, 2011

One Minute Pause for Holiday Peace

This time of year almost all of us get lost in the rush. A gift-giving, Christmas-shopping frenzy takes over and if we’re not careful we get sucked into the maddness. The result is anxiety, flaring tempers and frazzled nerves. A f ew quick tips can help to step out of the rushing river of Christmas folly and onto the river bank of calm.


1) Stop one minute and breathe: Schedule a moment during the day to stop. You may need to set an alarm or a timer to remind you. At the designated time, regardless of where you are, move inside. This is a conscious, gentle move to bring the focus inward. Check-in with how you feel. Take a deep breath and relax the muscles in the neck and jaws. On the exhale release the tensions. On the inhale pay attention to other areas that need to relax and let the tension flow out with the out breath. Move to focus on the right side of the body, at the level of the spiritual heart. Imagine a white light buring here and a flower blossom opening. A radiant glow begins to fill your entire being from the inside out. When you’re ready return to your normal activities. The glow and calm will continue to follow you throughout the day.


2) Take stock of what’s really important: Many of the things on the holiday schedule are simply not necessary. Do you really need to go to ten Christmas parties? Is it essential to buy so many gifts? Do you really need to take another trip to the mall to get that party dress? Take a moment before you enter into the rush of the day and assess what’s really essential for you. Cutting out the excess will give you more time and freedom for other activities.


3) Take a creative break: When we get so caught up in doing all of the expected and necessary things, we forget to give expression to our divine Self. Being creative is a good way to express this part of ourselves. It may even make the holidays easier. If you love to knit, why not combine your love with the desire to give your best friend a gift and knit her a beautiful scarf? Make a collage and frame it for your mom or create your own Christmas cards. Combining creativity with Christmastime essentials can help to make the season fun.

0 comments:

Post a Comment