The Holidays
Joy, Togetherness, Celebration
vs
Stress, Overstimulation, Overwhelm
Adding a holiday to "regular" life can be daunting, and for most of us, the holidays are a combination of pleasure and angst. Between busy schedules, family dynamics, and the pressure to make everything perfect & get it all done, peace can feel out of reach.
But what if we approached the season differently? What if, instead of rushing, we intentionally sought quiet moments of peace—for our minds, our hearts, and our well-being?
True peace isn’t about everything going perfectly but about finding calm and acceptance amid the chaos. It can feel as simple as a steady breath. A still mind. A moment where nothing is pulling you in ten directions. These moments lower stress, improve our focus and allow us to show up with more intention and presence for ourselves and others.
Invitations
Start Your Day with Stillness
Before the day’s demands take over, spend 5-10 minutes in quiet. Breathe deeply, meditate, or simply be.
Ask yourself: What’s one small thing I can do today to feel calm?
Embrace Saying “No"
You don’t need to attend every gathering or meet every expectation. Choose what aligns with your energy and priorities.
Create a Peaceful Environment
Set aside a space for stillness—a cozy chair, soft lighting, calming music, a favorite blanket. Invite yourself to sit for a few minutes & close your eyes.
Constant connection to technology can leave us feeling drained. Emails, notifications, and social media often keep us in “work mode” or “comparison mode”. Unplug from screens, even briefly, to reduce overstimulation.
Practice Gratitude
Take a few moments each day to reflect on small joys: a tasty meal, shared laughter, a quiet walk. Gratitude shifts your focus away from what’s missing and toward what’s present.
Focus on Presence Over Perfection
The holidays will never be flawless, and that’s okay. Allow imperfection and focus on the moments that matter most.
Ask yourself: Will this matter in a year? If not, let it go.
Take Small Breaks
Give yourself 10-15 minutest to read a book, pet a furry animal, stand up & stretch, or enjoy a warm drink without distractions.
Connect to Nature
Step outside, even in winter. Fresh air, quiet surroundings, and gentle movement can reset your mind.
Peace as a Practice
Seeking peace is not a one-time decision—it’s a practice. It’s choosing stillness when the world feels loud. It’s giving yourself permission to breathe, to pause, and to let things be.
This season don’t just look for the perfect gift or celebration. Look for the quiet moments where peace can settle into your day.
Because when you find peace within, you can share it with others—and that may just be the greatest gift of all.
|