I used to dread the lead up to Christmas. There was too much to do and the overwhelm sucked. Obsessed with getting the right gifts, I would debate back and forth between items and colors. When the shopping was done, I would breathe a sigh of relief, and then spend a stressed out Christmas eve wrapping them all. I remember thinking that I would love to relax on the couch and gaze at the lit up tree with eggnog and rum in hand. Somehow though, this never happened. There was always something else pulling at my attention, and I felt frazzled by the time Christmas Day came.
So how, in this crazy and busy month, can we make it so that we feel good, really good? So that our energy is in tact and we cruise through the next few weeks taking care of ourselves and as a result, feeling calm and full of vitality? I am answering this question for myself. Perhaps some of my answers will resonate with you.
- Wrap gifts ahead of time. We did this last weekend. My partner and I went down to the secret closet and sorted out what had been purchased and for whom. And then we hauled everything upstairs, turned on a show, broke open some alcohol, and wrapped every last thing. It was fun. We also learned something about each other: he is great at making name tags, and I’m good at curling ribbon.
- Make decisions quickly. If you need to buy something, just buy it. Now. Do not spend too much time deliberating about if the person will like it, or if the other color would be better. If you’re anything like me, you can get bogged down by analysis paralysis and end up putting it off which will only add to your stress. Same with dinner or party invitations. If you are leaning towards “no”, say no right away with no excuses or “I’ll get back to you”. Again, this back and forth is mentally exhausting and compounds the stress.
- Step into the busyness and stress. If you have made too many commitments and are being run off your feet, at least be run off your feet mindfully. Feel the ground you are walking on, and notice the energy that pulses through your body. Interact wholeheartedly with people—really listen to them and be interested in their lives. Pay attention to the sensations in your body as you move through the day, and when it seems like there are too many tasks to do, engage in each one with all of your attention and focus. This is one way you can bring a sense of calm and satisfaction to your well-being.
The month of December has never been perfect for me, but it’s getting better. In the moment, it feels like everything matters so much, and there’s always a bit of drama around that. It’s interesting that over the last 10 Christmases, I remember more about how I felt than gifts given or received. Take care of your well-being. There is nothing more important and influential than your mental, physical, and emotional vitality.
Until next time,
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