The festive season is well and truly here, and it can be especially hard around this time to feel balanced and at peace. It can be a busy time and a stressful time for everyone, so read on to find ways to stay balanced and calm during the holidays!
FOCUS ON PEOPLE
People and relationships are with us year round. Focus on tending to and cultivating new and existing relationships during this hectic time. Remember that no matter what it is you believe, the holidays are a time of giving, spending time with family and friends, and sharing love wherever you go. It isn’t about material presents, rather it is about PRESENCE! Relax and enjoy spending time with those you love, because these experiences will be the ones that you remember for years to come.
ADD MEANING
If you are planning on going all out with gifts, why not make it a meaningful one. Rather than just buying something for the sake of it, really give thought to who it is you are buying for and what you think they will actually get use out of. Try hand making a gift, or gifting an experience. Once you have found the perfect gift, why not try furoshiki, or Japanese fabric wrapping, when you wrap it up? It is the perfect way to add a personal and Eco-friendly touch to a gift, rather than just wrapping something in non-reusable paper that will just end up in the bin.
TAKE TIME OUT
It can be so easy to spread yourself thin attending every End-Of-Year party or event you have received an invitation to. And it can be just as easy to clear your calendar to take time for you, if you commit to taking some time out. The holidays are the perfect time to treat yourself with a ‘staycation’ of sorts, and retreat to recover from the year that was and to prepare for the new year ahead. The festive season is a time of kindness, so make sure to grant some of that kindness to yourself!
BE KIND
A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions, and the roots spring up and make new trees – Amelia Earhart
Kindness is the best thing you can give to someone, no matter the time of year. A small act of kindness might be just the thing someone else needs to lift their mood, and bring some cheer during the holidays. An individual’s circumstances aren’t always laid bare for all to see, and a small kind act may be just the thing that softens negative feelings and turns their outlook around. And doing something for someone else really will lift your own mood and self-esteem. So get on out there and do some good deeds!
KEEP IT REAL
Try not to get hung up on what the holidays are ‘supposed’ to be, or how you are meant to feel during this time. Christmas and New Year aren’t necessarily joyful times for everyone, and it is important for you to be true to how you feel. Relax and let go of expectations and go with the flow. The Christmas Tree doesn’t have to be perfect, the day doesn’t have to run like clock-work. Just be realistic with your expectations and enjoy yourself!
Article by Rachel Marie
