Rest and Reset
Just the thought of the holiday season makes my heart quicken. The over committing. The obligations. The planning. The optimizing each moment. All in the spirit to be more, enjoy more, do more. Ultimately, this takes a toll on us.
The constant stress of going and doing weakens your immune system. You’re more at risk for catching colds and the flu. And once you’re sick there’s the feeling of “being behind,” which leads to less sleep and more anxiety. It’s a constant cycle of playing catch up. All in the spirit of the holidays.
It took a recent virus to strike our household so that we/I had to “shut down.” No work, no play, just rest. When was the last time I allowed myself just that? When was the last time you did?
If you think stillness is a luxury that you don’t have time for, I assure you that 5 minutes, or less, a day can recharge you. Think of it as hitting your own reset button. Here are a few of the moments of stillness that I’ll be practicing with my family throughout the season.
Pause. Upon waking in the morning, resist the urge to check your phone. Ground both feet on the floor, take a deep breath, do some simple stretches and set an intention. Your intention could be one word that grounds you throughout the day. Use that intention to fuel your work, creativity, relationships and remind you of your purpose.
Step outside. We rush through our transitions in the morning from home to school, to work, to home. During those transitions take a moment to listen to the birds in the trees. As you take out the trash look around as your environment transforms with the seasons. Watch the squirrels at play and the clouds change shape overhead.
Notice. Discover one new thing on your way to work, school or on your walk. Finding something you’ve never noticed before encourages your mind to think in new directions and take a fresh perspective. You become more open to discovering new things all around.
Act with purpose. Dishes and laundry can feel like a full-time job. Take this time to focus your attention on the present actions, however mundane. While folding laundry find pleasure in the textures and the fresh clean smell. Savor the quiet moments as you wash dishes, feel the warmth of the water and find gratitude in the nourishing meal you just fed your family.
Practice gratitude. Waiting in lines feels like a hallmark of the season. Think of 3 things you’re thankful for, maybe it’s the fresh groceries for your family or the new toys for your children. Find gratitude in the forced moment of stillness. And instead of reaching for your phone, smile at the person next to you.
The rewards from these SMALL acts in perspective have BIG perks! You will have more gratitude and grounding. More acceptance and self-love. And you’re resetting your nervous system.
BUT, these are not meant to be done alone! Nurture these acts of reflection in your children as well. Encourage everyone in your family to take the moments to pause, notice and be grateful. Your children will feel the shift as you share in these moments together.
You and your children will embody a togetherness that isn’t found rushing out the door from one stop to the next. The grand prize? You’re building everyone’s capacity to find refuge in their own being. Because for me coming home is the true hallmark of this season.
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