“Tis the season to be jolly!” Do you have plenty of energy to make it through the holidays this year? There’s so much to be done—festive decorating and baking, creating and sending holiday greeting cards, hosting and attending gatherings and events, and finding the time and money to shop for all the people on your list.

Although the hustle and bustle of the season are full of fun, it does come with a price and not just for the gifts. There’s a high level of stress that accompanies the holidays. We take it for granted because we’re used to feeling the pressure to keep up with what everyone else is doing or what we have done in the past. You might say it’s just how things are this time of year. Let’s face it, our societal and cultural norms have us rocking around the Christmas tree, drinking too much eggnog, and shopping till we drop. But does it really have to be this way?

What if you were able to considerably lower your stress this year and still have a joyous season? Wouldn’t it be wonderful to close out the year feeling rested and renewed instead of feeling stuffed from the holiday indulgences and exhausted from too many activities and late nights? It is totally possible with a simple shift of perception and some tips for slowing down and savoring the magical moments of the holidays.

A Shift in Perception about the Holiday Season

This holiday season, I invite you to follow Mother Nature’s lead. Notice what flora and fauna are doing this time of year. Rather than embarking into a time of high stress and activity, they are deeply connected to the rhythm of the season and consistently follow their instincts to turn inward.

The trees have let go of what no longer serves them and are entering a time of deep rest. Many animals begin their hibernation, slowing their activity and even their heart rate and breath. Even the birds know to go to sleep earlier to allow their bodies the extra time needed to rejuvenate during winter.

What would it take for you to shift your perception of celebrating the holidays from busy, outward activities to a slower, more inward focus this year? What if, instead of engaging in an unlimited eating frenzy, you nourished your body with healthful, warming foods for winter? What if you let go of the need to buy excessive gifts for those on your list and instead shared something handmade or a simple gesture of kindness? What if you gave yourself permission to let this holiday season represent a time of rebirth for your hopes and dreams for your life—remembering your purpose for being here on Earth?

While shifting your perception of what is necessary for the holidays to be special, you will create more time to acknowledge and experience deeper connections to those whom you love. You’re also more likely to experience the spiritual meanings and miracles of the season.  

My Top 10 Tips for Lowering Stress During the Holidays

1. Simplify—less is more. This applies to everything holiday-related: decorations, gifts, food, alcohol, events...
2. Slow down—find joy in relaxation and rest. (Holiday jigsaw puzzle, anyone?)
3. Say no—it really isn't necessary to go to every holiday party and event. When you do attend a special event, plan to go home at a set time and honor that plan.
4. Sleep—just like the plants and animals, we need more rest this time of year to stay healthy (physically, mentally, and emotionally).
5. Nourish your body with health-supporting and warming foods—soups, stews, steamed/roasted vegetables, warm grains like oatmeal and quinoa, warm herbal teas.
6. Enjoy holiday meals and treats, but don't overindulge.
7. Breathe! Take some time throughout each day to breathe deeply.
8. Follow a regular routine of exercise.
9. Create meaningful connections to those you love most in your life.
10. Allow time for inward reflection—meditate, pray, and journal about the past year and the year ahead. Note what you are ready to let go of and what experiences you'd like to manifest next in your life. 

Magical Moments of the Holidays

As we move forward into the rest of this holiday season, try letting go of fast-paced, high-stressed, and over-indulgent expectations. Instead, set an intention for a peaceful, spacious experience of turning within. Whether you are alone or have a house full of people, cherish that which is silent, holy, calm, and bright.

Happy Holidays! Best wishes for peace, love, hope, and joy

now and all throughout the new year! ❤️

“In winter we lead a more inward life.

Our hearts are warm and cheery, like cottages under drifts.”

~ Henry David Thoreau