I have a love/hate relationship with December. On the one hand, I LOVE the holidays. I love shopping and finding the perfect gift for someone. I love decorating. I love the smell of Christmas trees. I love that darn elf on the shelf (don't judge me because this is likely my last year with it and I am going to enjoy it!). But, at the same time I hate it. I hate feeling stressed. I hate the feeling of rushing through the month. And I hate the feeling of not being present in the moment to enjoy it.
So this month, I am participating in a Restorative Advent Calendar for Women with Bloom & Shine. Every day there are little tidbits and ideas to inspire, motivate and help us find our balance during the month of December. One that really resonates with me is to start every day by stopping. Becky Swanson, Certified Energy Coach, says, "When you take that moment, you bring yourself back into your strong center & connect to that wise & true part of you. You also create space that wasn't there before so you can move forward with more clarity & focus."
I could definitely use some more more clarity and focus, how about you? Each morning before I check my phone for emails or open up Facebook, I'm going to stop. Another friend of mine {I have some seriously healthy and awesome friends!} recommends the app Buddify for a short, guided mediation. I've been testing it out the last few days and really like it. {There are also great meditations for when you need a work break, are feeling stressed, and even one from being online!}
Here's to a mindful month of enjoying the holidays and not letting ourselves feel overwhelmed!
Peace, Love and Macaroni
Jamie
