Mindfulness During Times of Distraction
For many of us, winter means holidays, time off work or school, spending time with friends and family, and staying warm and cozy. But it also brings early sunsets, harsh weather, and potentially challenging situations for those of us with strained relationships. All of this to say, winter is a season of distractions. These can be both positive and negative, but not taking time for yourself, either way, can be taxing. That’s why today we’re sharing some quick mindfulness tips to help you find some “me time” this winter.
Find Periods of Time to Sit Quietly With Yourself
Whether it’s 2 minutes or two hours, try to carve out some time a few days a week to sit in silence. This is a great opportunity to practice grounding breathwork or simply check in with yourself and assess how you’re feeling. This can be especially helpful as we head into weeks filled with social events, parties, and overstimulating environments.
Allow Yourself to Feel Whatever You’re Feeling
December is often associated with "holiday cheer" and the "season of giving," which can make us feel guilty if we're experiencing emotions other than joy. Allow yourself to feel however you feel—whether that’s sadness, anxiety, frustration, or excitement. Acknowledging and accepting your emotions is a key step in managing them. Taking a moment to step away and validate how you’re feeling can make a world of difference. Bottling everything up or forcing a fake smile will only lead to an emotional release down the road.
It’s Okay to Say “No”
The holiday season often brings an influx of social events, but just because they’re happening doesn’t mean you have to attend. Never feel guilty for saying “no” if you need to prioritize your mental and emotional well-being. It can feel awkward at first, but your loved ones will understand if you’ve had a long week and need to rest. There will always be another gathering.
Prioritize Quality Sleep
Getting a good night’s rest is one of the best things you can do for yourself at any time of year, but especially during a particularly exhausting season. What helps you sleep well may vary from person to person, but if you need some tips, check out our blog on sleep here!
Hopefully, you find one or more of these tips helpful as you incorporate mindfulness into your holiday season. But if you feel like you might need more than mindfulness to help you feel your best this winter, it may be time to reach out and talk to someone. Book a consultation with Ashlee today here.