5 Simple ways to stay mindful during the holiday season.
The holiday season can be a busy time, but practicing mindfulness doesn’t have to be complicated.
It’s all about slowing down and being present in the moment. By adding a little mindfulness to your daily routine, you can reduce stress, feel more grounded, and truly enjoy this festive season.
What is mindfulness?
“Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to the present moment without getting tangled up in judgment or distraction.
It’s about observing your experience (including your thoughts, feelings, and even surroundings) without trying to change them. ”
Why mindfulness so crucial right now?
Mindfulness is crucial during the holiday season because it helps you stay present and truly appreciate the joy and love around you.
Here are 5 easy ways to do so: -
1. Begin your day with purpose.
Mornings can set the mood for the rest of your day.
Instead of starting your day scrolling mindlessly through social media or jumping right into your to-do list, take five minutes when you wake up to sit quietly.
Take a moment to think about what you’re grateful for and what you want to focus on today.
Maybe it’s being patient with your kids or finding time for a walk. Starting your day with intention can help you feel more centered and ready for whatever comes next.
2. Streamline your to-do list.
We often want everything to be perfect during the holiday, but perfection isn’t the goal.
Look at your to-do list and ask yourself what really matters. Do you really need to bake ten kinds of cookies or wrap every gift with fancy bows?
Focus on what brings joy to you and your loved ones, and let go of the rest.
Giving yourself permission to simplify is a kind gift to yourself.
3. Practice deep breathing.
Use your breath to anchor your calm.
Find a quiet spot and practice deep belling breathing.
Inhale through your nose filling up your belly. Sigh it through your mouth. Repeat.
Box breathing.
Another method is Box Breathing.
This is where you inhale for 4 counts, hold the breath for 4 counts, sigh it out for 4 counts, hold the empty breath for 4 counts to repeat.
Another method is the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.
The 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 method is a great tool to help calm yourself as you distract your brain to find:
5 Things you can see.
4 Things you can touch.
3 Things you can hear.
2 Things you can smell.
1 emotion you can feel.
Though there are many breathing techniques, these can help release any stress or anxiety you may be feeling.
4. Limit screen time.
The constant ping of a new notification can increase your anxiety and rob you of being present.
Turning off unnecessary notifications or designating specific times to check your phone.
When you’re with family or friends, put your phone away and focus on being present.
This will make your time together feel even more special.
5. Walk in nature.
Get outdoors and enjoy the beauty of summer. A simple walk can help clear your mind and lift your spirits.
Take in the sights and sounds around you, whether it’s the rustling of leaves in the breeze, the chirping of birds, or the vibrant colours of blooming flowers.
Embrace the warmth of the sun on your skin and the fresh scents of nature; damp soil, the smell of freshly cut grass as you stroll, allowing yourself to fully connect with your surroundings.
As we wrap up this blog on staying mindful during the holiday season, remember that it’s all about finding joy in the little moments.
By incorporating these simple practices into your daily routine, you can create a more peaceful and enjoyable atmosphere for yourself and your loved ones.
So, take a deep breath, embrace the present, and allow yourself to truly soak in the magic of this Christmas season.