I asked some friends and here are the top 10!
1. Wine ( Water is important too! I actually check off my water consumption on my "Ta Da List"!)
2. Setting boundaries and saying No! This one is tricky but it can save your sanity.
3. Yoga & Meditation
4. Setting intentions instead of expectations
Example: "I am happy" instead of "We will watch Elf, then hold hands, then go ice skating...." Expectations can lead to disappointment.
5. Plan ahead
I find it better to pull an all nighter wrapping gifts the week before Christmas; than waiting till Christmas Eve when I have had too much wine from #1!
6. Breath
I am going to set up reminders on my phone to go off at different times. This way I will remember to take a moment to breath and reconnect with my intentions. We all know how easy it is to get caught up in the chaos!
7. Have a strategy
You can't control how all your relatives will act but you can control your reaction. You know your sister will push your buttons or Uncle Stan will lure you into a political conversation. Have a strategy so you can keep from losing your cool!
8. Have a talisman to help ground you
For example a necklace that reminds you of happy times. A note on your mirror saying " Be Grateful" My Friend Mindy Scime has taught me to tattoo myself with a sharpie marker as a reminder!
9. Flow like water
Kids get sick, snow storms happen and sometimes you burn the cookies! Imagine the stream. The water keeps flowing around obstacles. Be flexible and let go of the outcome. Trust that it will all work out for you. See my story of last Christmas below.
10. Make your own traditions
A friend of mine doesn't celebrate any winter holidays. She has a mixture of emotions around this time of year. Friends and I suggested she make her own rituals and traditions for winter.
Last Christmas
My oldest son came down with a fever just hours before a Christmas Eve party. We were all looking forward to the party. This year was special, because some out of town family were joining us for the first time. I stayed home with my son and my husband took my other son to the party. I was so disappointed at first, but I then I went with the flow. We had a quiet evening of playing games; just the two of us. It was different from what I had expected, but it was a happy evening just the same.
On the Canvas:
I have been busy working on a 2nd mural, two business logos for friends and an e course for busy mamas like me! Follow me on Instagram @Mindful Canvas and Twitter @JMindfulcanvas to see more pics!
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| Logo in the making for One Yoga...coming to Lewiston NY Soon! |
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| Mural almost finished! |
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| Wendy From Balanced Yoga and I with her Logo |
Till we meet again my Creative Friends!
Please post your favorite ways to cope with Holiday Stress!
