How to Be Present During the Holidays
It can be easy to let this time of year slip by whether or not we mean to. The holidays move so quickly, so how do we slow down as best we can?
Mindfulness is one of the most effective things we can practice to savor every moment, even when our schedules are full and busy.
If you’re not sure what mindfulness is – well, to quote our mindfulness devotional, it encompasses multiple things:
awareness of one’s self or surroundings
observing one’s emotions, thoughts and situations
several practices that promote self awareness (journaling, meditation, prayer, studying, etc.)
The Bible promotes these things. In Psalm 1:1-2, it says, “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night.”
So, let’s apply these practices to our holidays. We can create mindfulness and presence this time of year with a little bit of effort, even when it seems we have no free time.
Here are some practices to promote mindfulness and intention during this season:
Be present with the Lord. Set aside intentional time to pray, worship, and read Scripture. As a busy working mom, I get that you might not have even 15 minutes to do this by yourself. That’s ok! Find ways to work it into your schedule. Maybe you opt to listen to worship Christmas music in the car with your kids. Consider reading a short devotional or advent reading first thing in the morning, or include the whole family by reading it together over a meal.
Be present with your food. Put your phone down, switch off the television, and focus on what’s laid out on your plate. Appreciate your food’s color, aroma, texture, and flavor. Think of the person who carefully prepared it for you, too. Chew slowly and savor the taste. Don’t rush it! Mindful eating also includes paying attention to your body’s hunger cues and knowing when you’re already full. This can be especially helpful during the holidays when we’re rushing between events.
Be present with your body. More than the physical benefits, mindful workouts can significantly improve your mood, help you be more focused, and strengthen your mind-body connection. Even if you don’t have time for a regular workout during the holidays, try to fit in movement that works with your schedule. Perhaps that means going on a walk with your family after a meal, or getting in a quick 5-minute stretch when you wake up. If distracting thoughts suddenly enter your mind while jogging or lifting weights, focus your attention back on your practice, your body, and your breath. Maybe even use breath prayers to guide your movement.
Be present with others. Whether it’s your partner, children, siblings or parents, give them your full and undivided attention whenever they’re talking to you. Pause what you’re doing and connect with them at the given moment. Suspend any form of judgment and listen to what they’re saying. Sincerely hear their thoughts and acknowledge their feelings instead of thinking of a rebuttal. This is important year round, but can be even more significant during the holidays.
Navigating mindfulness can be hard no matter what time of year it is. Knowing where to start with the above practices can be hard, too. When you’re not sure where to start, here are some questions you can ask yourself:
What is one thing I’m taking with me and one thing I’m leaving behind this holiday season?
How does my body feel right now?
How will I be kind to myself today?
How will I be kind to those around me?
What emotions am I carrying right now?
You can also use these questions all year long to check in with yourself or with others. Mindfulness and presence are great practices to have year round.
If nothing else, one of the best ways to practice mindfulness is to pray. Ask God to refocus your attention on what is right in front of you. He is faithful to hear our prayers.