I had a close call on the highway… not a screeching, panicking near-miss, but enough to jolt me into the realization that, given a few seconds either way, things could be very different ie. I would not be writing this blog to you, my dear peeps.

In a split second flash, it became very clear to me, and probably more so this holiday time of year, just how we believe stories about what is important, even when we know they are not true, and certainly don’t always make us feel good. This can make for a very unfulfilling holiday, let alone, life.

Let me highlight what might be helpful to bring more mindfulness, and as a result more depth and quality, to your holiday experience this year.

1) Ask yourself what you can give: and I don’t mean just donations to the food bank. Each morning breathe into that light in your heart and ask what value you can bring to just one person’s life that day, that will make the difference for them. Do it quietly, unexpectedly and with your whole heart.

2) Question the stories you are believing: Seriously, if something is stressing you, question it. Does it have to be done? If it does, then accept and do it with love. It’s amazing how we get sidelined by what we think we should do to “make it a great Christmas”… If we have no choice in how we spend our time, then what kind of life have we created? Is it an old story you are regurgitating? Then honor your feelings and say goodbye to it. Give it up as it’s robbing you of precious energy TODAY! Would you care if this was your last day?

3) Just like me: Know that not everyone is having the most merry, merry time… contrary to popular media. Many people find holidays difficult to navigate with the many activities (or not enough), family relationships, losses, finances to manage. When you are standing in a line-up, bring this awareness to each and every other person before you. Empathize with their stress, impatience and whatever else they may be carrying.

4) Heart felt conversations: Having had one this week that was long overdue, I am always amazed by the power of a conversation that comes only from love, to heal and transform. In our mindfulness group this week we discussed how to help someone that is having a hard time. The words “acceptance’ and ’empathy’ arose. I would also add that if that someone is YOU, then perhaps expressing it in an open, loving way is in order.

5) Appreciation: Know that it’s never what you don’t have that makes for a good holiday, it’s what you DO have. What and who can you appreciate today, with words, or even more importantly, just in your heart? Recognize what you already have each and every day. This is the key to a truly peaceful and fulfilling holiday.

… and if you’re looking for more, stay tuned for the next Introduction to Mindfulness class coming in January…

Have a great Monday and a wonderful week!