“It’s not enough to be busy. So are the ants. The question is: What are we busy about?”
~ Henry David Thoreau
When I think of a healthy holiday, I think of so many things:
- Autoimmune health – navigating the season without a flare.
- Celebration – remembering what the season is meant to be about and scheduling favorite activities among the obligations.
- Self-compassion – understanding this is often a difficult time of year and being gentle with myself and my expectations.
- Stress resilience – maintaining practices that sustain me, like steady sleep, nutrient-density, meditation, and making time for myself. There will likely still be stress and indulgence, but I’ll be better equipped to handle both.
- Social connection – this is a tricky one because sometimes the people we love the most come in a stress-wrapped package during the holidays. So, I strive to give everyone a little bit of grace, and also make plans with the people who are simply a joy to be around.
What Is a Mantra?
In this context, it’s a short statement that contains an intention, and it’s usually repeated to keep it in the forefront of your mind. You can:
- Start and end your day with a mantra.
- Use it as a meditation prompt, repeating it with each breath.
- Put it someplace you’ll see it every day: on your mirror, on your fridge, or as wallpaper for your computer or phone.
- Type a mantra into the Reminder app on your smartphone and set it to appear at a certain time every day.
Here are 5 mantras to help us thrive this holiday season. Feel free to write your own as well:
*I choose my Yes’s and No’s this season. I don’t let the season choose for me.*
*I give to myself as much as I give to others. I cannot pour from an empty vessel.*
*I mindfully choose my indulgences, and support my mind, body & spirit this season.*
*There is no failure, only choices, and each day begins anew.*
*I give myself space to feel all my emotions, getting support as I need it this season.*
Other Helpful Resources
Credit: image at top of page purchased from iStock.
