In the past, I have gone a little crazy at Christmas. Okay – a lot crazy. Those were years where I was aiming for spectacular, and perfection and my motivation was very much ego-driven. Alas I am older and wiser now and I find much more fulfillment in focusing on the true meaning of Christmas, which is the joy of being, love for all ….and being with peace.
They key to experiencing an anxiety-free Christmas is to equip yourself with a few strategies and to set your mind to having a peaceful Christmas. We already carry in us the ability to remain calm and joyful regardless of outside circumstances and if your goal – like mine – is having a peaceful Christmas, there are ways to stay focused on the peace and joy of Christmas.
The first thing to do, is to embrace simplicity. Take a look at what you typically do around Christmas and see what can be changed up, and made simpler. Getting through the pandemic already changed many of our usual gathering traditions, so why not use the opportunity to start new, simpler and more satisfying traditions.
Other strategies which really work for me include:
- Setting limits on the money I will spend, the drinks and the food I will consume , the activities I will take on, etc.
- Scheduling my events and activities to allow enough rest time for myself
- Having a Christmas mantra such as “Good enough is good enough” or “Presence over presents”
- Not taking things personally and accepting that I cant control what happens around me, but I can control how I respond
- Making a gratitude list including the sights, sounds and tastes of Christmas that brings me satisfaction so I can keep my focus on staying positive
I spoke of Christmas being about connection before, but its also about being mindful and present in the moment, and keeping yourself open to joyful tranquility. When you carry peace within you, you have the ability to remain calm and joyful at all times, regardless of outside circumstances.
A great way to help your mind move from anxiety and turbulence to tranquility is by adding quiet moments in your day, to help still the mind, and focus on positive thoughts and your goal of experiencing inner peace.
Stress-free Christmas
Just be sure you set aside five minutes each morning to sit quietly with a cup of Christmas blend coffee, tea or water and just breathe.
Use the time to ground yourself and prepare for the day that is to come. Repeat your Christmas Mantra, read your gratitude list. Beginning each day peacefully will help you to carry that peace with you for the rest of the day.
I wish you an untroubled and peaceful Christmas.
SOAR Coaching and Personal Insights 