More Joy, Less Stress This Holiday Season

Dear Friends,

As we move into the time of year that’s become known as the holiday season, our culture is filled with messages about what we should be doing, thinking, and feeling.

That actually makes it a great time to practice tuning into your inner self and getting more in touch with your own deepest, truest values.

Then, if you wish, take gentle steps to live more in alignment with those values.

If you have a partner and/or older children, having honest conversations about what is most important to each of you can help make the season more satisfying and meaningful for all of you.

Here are some reflection questions:

• If you had no obligations or external expectations, and could just do what you wanted at this time of year, what would you do? What stops you from doing that?

• What do you enjoy most about this time of year? What do you enjoy least?

• What are your favorite holiday memories from childhood? From adulthood?

• What seasonal traditions are most deeply meaningful to you?

• What are the emotions you most want to feel this time of year, such as love, joy, peace, calm, connection?

• What are the values you most want to express, for example kindness, compassion, taking care of each other?

When you get clear about what is most important to you (and your loved ones), give yourself permission to, as much as possible, let go of the pressure to do more.

And, most importantly, remember that everything can be an opportunity to learn to love more, starting with loving ourselves.

Sending much love,

Liz