Finding Peace during the Holidays

The holidays are a time for family, gift giving, gratitude, and sometimes chaos! There are a million parties and events to attend, running around from store to store trying to find the perfect gift, family commitments, school programs, cookies to bake, meals to prepare, decorating to do, the list can go on and on.  So, how are you going to find time to take of yourself during the holidays? By following these easy tips and tricks!

1. Schedule time for YOU!

We are often so good at planning, scheduling and making time to squeeze in activities for our family, but what about scheduling time for you in the mix? If you don't have an entire hour to dedicate to an in studio class, how about a short and sweet at home yoga practice? There are a variety of guided online flows that only take 15-30 minutes (check out my free 20 minute yoga for holiday stress flow!) of your time. You don't even have to get out of your pj's to practice! 

2. Create an at home meditation space

Having a tiny slice of paradise in your own home can be a game changer! Allow this space to reflect your personality, have plenty or natural light, and a few things that you love (check out my blog on how to create the perfect at home meditation space!). This sweet little corner can serve as a break from the hustle and bustle of the holidays. You can retreat here to read a book, drink hot tea, or listen to calming music while you take five minutes to close your eyes and breathe. 

3. Take a weekly yoga class

Mark your calendar for one hour in the week where no plans can be made. This is your time to hop into a yoga class at your local studio (if you're in the Upstate South Carolina area, check out Anderson Yoga Center in Anderson, SC!). Consider this a strong commitment to yourself, one that is needed, and deserved! 

4. Practice saying "No"

It is okay to say no, or to politely decline an invitation. This is your holiday season too, and you have every right to enjoy it. If that means declining invitations, and prioritizing space to find peace, that is OKAY! You cannot be everywhere at once, and it is necessary to be mindful of what you are penciling into your calendar. Give yourself permission to have a completely free day, no commitments, nothing on the calendar and enjoy some cozy time at home watching holiday movies, making hot cocoa and ordering food to be delivered. You deserve it! 

5. Remember that you matter too

We so often get wrapped up in doing for others, that we forget to do for ourselves. I love the saying "you can't pour from an empty cup", meaning you can't sustain constantly serving others, if you, yourself, are not being fulfilled. Take a break to do something that makes you happy. Take a long hot bath, get a pedicure, go out for ice cream, sit in your mediation space, workout out, take a yoga class. Whatever makes your soul happy, make time to do that! You deserve it. 

I hope that these little tips help you thrive during this holiday season! 

Love and deep breaths,

Jen <3