Holiday Habits

I hear the Salvation Army representative ringing her bell on the street. It’s one of those signs that the holiday season is upon us. Whatever your associations with late December: Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa, the Solstice, a break from school or work, it’s worth taking a moment to consider the feelings and habits that we also carry along. For some it’s a time of release or celebration of family, friends or spirit, for others it’s a time of tension and stress. What are your habits?

Rather than provide another checklist we offer some counsel. It’s a good time to go a little slower – especially when you’re feeling pressure. This might mean giving yourself time off from your to- do list, time for a walk, a visit to somewhere you can experience quiet (whether that’s a place of nature, a bath or an adventure in a city). Try to hold onto that sense of peace as you engage in conversations – since we all have expectations of each other at this time of gathering, we could all use a little extra compassion.

When you feel caught up by emotions, stories, or somehow off balance, use a slow deep focusing breath to return to the solidity and serenity of being in the moment. As you focus on the deep inhale and a relaxing exhale, as you focus on the movement of the breath in your body, you are momentarily transported out of the rush of thought and emotion. This can provide you with a place of peace.

To all of our readers, past, present and still unknown, we wish you peace and blessings in the new year.