During the holiday season time moves at lightning speed. It can feel like we have less time, more events to show up for and more deadlines (“get it done by Christmas” sound familiar?) We start moving fast because we sense that time is in short supply.
Hopped Up On Holiday Hype
We can accidentally get hopped up on adrenaline when we’re racing around doing errands, flitting from online sale to online sale, and flying from party to party. (Side note: Ever notice how many large, busy shops play fast music? It’s no accident. Fast music has been proven to boost sales.)
But that velocity can make us feel reactive and keep us from being fully present and making decisions in line with our highest good. We might find ourselves buying shit we don’t need, saying things we don’t mean, and eating or drinking more than we normally would.
Slow your roll and Skip the drama
The good news is that when we become conscious of this speedy, reactive energy, we can balance it and sidestep the traps of overindulgence, conflict and drama that can be the hallmarks of the holidays.
For example, something as simple as taking a few breaths before you make a purchase, eat a meal, have another drink or even engage in a tense conversation with a family member can help soothe the nervous system so that we can make more conscious choices around what we buy, eat, drink and say.
Try This At Home (Or Anywhere!)
Use this simple breathing practice to help slow your roll and be more conscious this silly season:
1. Inhale through the nose to a count of 4.
2. Hold the breath in for a count of 4.
3. Exhale through the nose 4.
4. Hold the breath out for a count of 4.
Repeat for for 1-2 minutes and you’ll relax your system and calm your mind. It’s a simple but powerful tool to have up your sleeve!
When you’re tempted to make a financial or caloric splurge – or tell your great aunt Thelma what you really think- remember… stop, breathe and be merry merry mindful this year!
