“All You Need is…”: 4 Ways to Stay Grounded & Joyful This Holiday Season
Does the holiday season have you spinning? Would you like to start the new year refreshed and relaxed, not exhausted?
It’s possible – I promise!
Here are 4 simple ways to stay grounded and joyful this holiday season.
Slow down. Just because everyone around you is rushing, doesn’t mean you have to as well.
It’s human nature to be affected by the energy and tempo of those around us. Just notice how the people around you (both your loved ones and the strangers in Target) are moving, talking, interacting. Can you slow yourself down, even a tiny bit?
This may take some conscious effort. See if you can notice when you’re walking quickly or heavily, trying to race against a yellow traffic light, or get everything done in not enough time.
Do less and do it less than perfectly. Who will know if the cookies are made completely from scratch or from a break’n bake package? (no one - true story!) Can you find ways to trim down your to-do list for the holidays? Can you ask others for help, make a smaller meal, or get creative with gifts?
Also, be mindful if you put pressure on yourself to buy the perfect gift for someone in your life – do you sacrifice your own sanity and financial stability? If so, ask yourself if that’s really worth it. Remember that your peace of mind is worth a lot!
Make memories. What will you (or your kids, or family) remember after the holidays are over? Would you rather remember the hours at the mall, waiting in line, or battling traffic or the delicious meals, spontaneous drives to see Christmas lights, or the smell of eggnog or hot cider?
Think about what you’d like to remember after the holiday craze dies down and focus on that. If holidays with your family are less than ideal, then make your own memories – take yourself on a special date, buy yourself something small, limit your time with people who criticize you. Treating yourself well is an amazing gift to give yourself – it doesn’t have to mean a lot (or any) of money.
Savor the small things. It might just be me, but I always think that candy canes and potato latkes taste better during this time of year.
What small things have made you smile this holiday season so far? Maybe it was your child meticulously shopping for a gift, or the sound of carolers, or the smell of a fresh Christmas tree that you passed on the sidewalk.
Today I paused in an outdoor holiday market to listen to a man playing the hammered dulcimer – simply gorgeous.
Pause right here – can you list two things that have made you smile so far this season? If not, what two things can you smile about in anticipation?
What are you looking forward to this holiday season & how do you stay grounded and joyful – leave me a comment below, I’d love to hear from you!
About the Author
Maya is a music therapist and psychotherapist in NYC and online throughout New York State. She specializes in helping women with anxiety, childhood/intergenerational trauma and those who are highly sensitive (HSP) feel good enough, learn how to express their feelings without overwhelm, and show up in calm and confident ways in their work and relationships.
If you’re interested in working with Maya, you can learn more here or schedule your free phone consultation here.
You don’t have to stay stuck - it’s time to reclaim your rhythm.