Finding peace this holiday season

FEATURE – Happy Thanksgiving! Merry Christmas! Happy New Year! It’s that busy time of year — travel plans, shopping, choir concerts, decorating and traditions. How do we manage all of this activity while maintaining a sense of peace?

Here’s a list of tips that can help bring calm and enjoyment to a stressful season.

  • Focus on what’s important. Think about what Thanksgiving and Christmas really mean, and disregard what is too much. Decide which traditions and activities are most valued by you and your family. Say no to events that you really don’t care about or feel you have time for.
  • Be kind. Do you ever notice how rude people can be this time of year? We are all stressed out. Be mindful that everyone around you is in a hurry, worried about spending too much money. Do your part to help lift those who cross your path — smile, offer a sincere compliment, hold the door open. You would be surprised how these small acts of kindness can boost someone who is feeling down, frustrated or lonely.
  • PEACEGive to others. Nothing will cheer your heart and bring you peace like being generous to those in need. Keep some spare change in your pockets for the bell-ringing Santas, or leave a gift package at the door of someone struggling financially. If you are cash-strapped yourself, offer a service instead.
  • Turn away from the materialism that bombards you. Simplify your gift buying and stick to your budget. When choosing a gift, ask yourself, “Is this really worth the money?” Sometimes the most appreciated gifts are the ones that are inexpensive and sentimental.
  • Have gratitude. You’re stuck in traffic? Be thankful you have a warm car to drive. Your flight is delayed? Be grateful you have family who’s waiting for your visit.
  • Enjoy the season. Drive around town just to look at the lights. Add new holiday songs to your playlist. Go caroling with your neighbors (some of us should just listen to other carolers). Curl up on the couch with cocoa and a Christmas movie.

Enjoy the holidays. Have love in your heart for yourself, your family and your friends. Remember what the holidays are all about, and give yourself and everyone else a break for all their imperfections. Slow down and put unnecessary cares aside — right now, it’s time to celebrate and find peace in the season.

Brigit Atkin
Brigit Atkin

Written by Brigit Atkin for St. George Health and Wellness magazine and St. George News.

Atkin is a certified practitioner of the SimplyHealed method, which blends the art of healing with cutting-edge research and clears negative emotions on a mental, emotional and physical level in an easy, non-invasive way. It can release stress of any kind, whether it be years of abuse or daily things that tend to overwhelm our emotional circuitry. She was trained by Carolyn Cooper and works within the St. George community.

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