It's Time to Set Your Vacation Email Settings

Embracing the Holiday Spirit: A Call to Pause and Appreciate

As the holiday season approaches, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of preparations, shopping, and endless to-do lists. This year, let's empower ourselves to take a step back, breathe deeply, and truly savor the moments that make this time of year special. The holidays are not just about the gifts we give or receive but about the connections we forge and the memories we create. By allowing ourselves the freedom to pause, we can embrace the joy and warmth that the season brings.

Being Present

In the spirit of gratitude and reflection, here is a beautiful poem titled "Presence" by Melissa Shaw Smith that encourages us to appreciate the little things:

Presence

In the quiet of the morning,
When the world begins to wake,
I find a moment's stillness,
A chance for my heart to take.

The laughter of a child,
The warmth of a gentle smile,
These are the gifts of presence,
That make life feel worthwhile.

So let us pause and cherish,
Each moment, big and small,
For in the art of being present,
We find the greatest gift of all.

Let these words inspire us to embrace gratitude in our hearts. This holiday season, let’s cherish the simple joys: the laughter of loved ones, the comfort of shared meals, and the magic of twinkling lights.

Empower Yourself to Thrive

Here are a few empowering practices to help you enjoy the holiday season:

• Set Intentions: Before diving into the chaos, take a moment to reflect on what you truly want to experience this season. If the holidays bring sadness, which is very common, take a moment to notice why that is and embrace those difficult emotions. Get curious about it and talk with a friend if that feels safe to do so.

• Create Space for Joy: Schedule time for activities that bring you happiness, whether it's baking, decorating, or simply enjoying a cup of cocoa by the fire. Don't apologize for watching cheesy Netflix romcoms- I know I have indulged as of late!

• Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness exercises to stay present and fully appreciate each moment. Enjoy the winter night sky, the constellations, the holiday lights, and the quiet moments. Feel the sun on your face or watch the snow sparkle.

• Connect with Others: Reach out to friends and family, share stories, and create new traditions that foster connection and joy. Try new things like a puzzle- I recently purchased a jigsaw puzzle of Paris, and it has brought a lot of joy and focus. I have even discovered my adult son at midnight working on the puzzle, which is currently occupying the dining room table with a pine-scented candle.

Final Note

This holiday season, let us empower ourselves to slow down and truly enjoy the beauty around us. By embracing gratitude and taking time to appreciate the little things, we can create a season filled with love, joy, and meaningful moments.

Stay safe and enjoy your glimmering moments of joy this holiday season!

Warmly,

Jennifer Muñoz