Finding Peace During The Holidays

The holidays can be joyful, but It's easy to feel overwhelmed at this time of the year. The practices of Yoga and Ayurveda show us how to find ease during the holidays.

PRACTICE MINDFULNESS

Being mindful means being present. The purpose is to allow ourselves to feel emotions and think thoughts, but not be overwhelmed with them and instead accept that they are part of the moment, but will change.

BE PRESENT

Stress often comes from thinking about the past or future, rather than planning ourselves in the present. This can lead to anxiety and stress over what’s to come or what may have happened in the past, and by working to be present instead we can relieve much of that stress.

LET GO OF EXPECTATIONS

We often have ideas about how we want things to be or turn out, during the holiday season especially. Let go of your expectations for the holidays and simply let things happen. By not setting high expectations for the holidays, you can roll with the punches more easily and enjoy what is.

BE COMPASSIONATE TO YOURSELF AND OTHERS

Practice kindness to yourself and to your family. Don’t push yourself too hard during the holiday season and you’ll actually enjoy it more.

PRACTICE YOGA

The holiday season isn’t the time to set aside your yoga practice or let it slide. If anything, you should make more time to do yoga during the holidays, to help you relieve any stress or tension you might have.

CONCENTRATE ON YOUR BREATHING

Finding somewhere quiet to meditate or practice pranayama can really make a difference during the holiday season. It will help you to calm and focus your mind.