Mindfulness Daily Check-In December 19,2017

H-O-L-I-D-A-Y S-T-R-E-S-S

Is holiday season stressful or even lonely? Have you heard of the benefits of mindfulness,but just don't see how you could fit it in? Especially during the holidays? We often mistakenly think meditation requires sitting cross legged and eyes closed. Sitting there for hours till you feel a certain "sensation". Although that would be nice, it's clearly not always possible and the good news is that it's not necessary either! No matter what we are doing, whether it is commuting or traveling, eating or talking, sitting around or doing chores, each of these activities presents an opportunity for mindfulness!

1) Demands on Time-

In December, our schedules often fill up quickly with work and personal holiday parties. These back-to-back parties start to feel overwhelming as we try to juggle them with all of our other commitments. Also, creating the holiday experience we desire for our loved ones and ourselves takes planning. It often starts to feel like we are chickens running around with no heads collecting recipes, buying and wrapping gifts, inviting guests, hosting, traveling, cooking, cleaning, buying trees (or menorahs!), and decorating. You do not need to say yes to everything. Giving and giving without stopping is not an altruistic notion. It is important to be mindful of when we might need refuelling and to allow that to happen. Self-care can mean many things, but it can be as simple as a night to ourselves that includes a bath and a good meal cooked by someone else!

2) Loneliness During the Holidays- There is an immense amount of pressure to please the people we love with the gifts that we think they will love. Instead of a joyful endeavor, gift giving becomes a chore, and we often become resentful and unloved if we do not receive something equally meaningful in return.The holidays are a particularly poignant time to practice the art of compassion to think of others needs before our own. There is great opportunity to give to, and establish meaningful connections with, those who dont have as many resources as we do. Giving doesnt have to be monetary or a physical gift. Giving comes in many forms including smiles, time, and emotional support.

3) The Indulge/Guilt Cycle- We often seem to let all notions of wellness and health fall by the wayside during this time of year. The problem is not only are we not staying healthy, but we are also setting ourselves up for feelings of guilt and self-deprecation.

A thriving life depends on moderation, and this concept particularly applies when we are inundated with mass amounts of food and drink. By eating mindfully we can keep our minds, bodies, and brains healthy without the self-defeating thoughts of we are so bad we are so fat, etc.

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