A Season of Presence, Not Presents

We are full on in the holiday season. Presents are being given, you are debating taking down decorations now or in a week, and you are looking forward to the last few holiday parties with friends. During this most wonderful time of year let me ask: is your focus this season on Presents or Presence? How often do we run through the holiday season shopping, cooking, attending parties, get togethers, family gatherings, giving presents, leaving us feeling like we are doing well to “survive the holidays?” In keeping with the spirit of the season and focusing on being mindfully present in our lives, let’s take back this time of year and choose not to survive but to thrive.

Right now we are focused on what we can give to others. That is a wonderful mindset and something we should hold onto all year round. But it is also important to shower yourself with love and care. Here are a few FREE suggestions of gifts to give yourself during this season of spending.

• Time: Gift yourself 10-15 minutes during your day to be silent. Leave the journal at your side and spend time in quiet reflection. With no expectations, allow your mind to quiet and your soul to rest.


• Forgiveness: “Failing is as certain as sunsets. Our greatest glory is not in never failing, but in rising up every time we fail.” -Ralph Waldo Emerson

Is there something that you need to forgive yourself for? What can you learn from that experience as you rise up and continue forward?

• Self Love: Take some time and fill out this Self Love Letter from my Self Care lecture here at H3. Take some time to connect with all of the reasons why you are awesome!


• A Sense of Humor: He (she) who laughs, lasts. A good laugh can do amazing things to clear out the darkness. Smiling (even when you do not feel happy!) can change your outlook. Remember, every passing moment is the opportunity to turn it all around.

Are you thinking about New Years Day coming up? Are you stressing about writing New Year resolutions and making this year the best yet? Check out this great blog post written by Lisette last year, she offers a new perspective on looking at the New Year.