A Holiday Gift for Yourself
December, 2009
by Angelique Devost
I am writing this from Saratoga Springs, New York. I came here to meet two close friends for a girls’ weekend. It has turned out to be the perfect antidote for holiday season stress. We’ve shared some wine and lots of laughs, done a little shopping, and slept in late both mornings. It has been wonderful! Tomorrow morning, I look forward to driving back to Vermont feeling totally refreshed, reenergized and focused on what I want to accomplish in the coming week.
Of the many things we focus our energy on at this time of year — decorating the house, shopping for gifts, baking, writing out holiday cards, traveling, etc. — self care is likely not too high on our list, if it’s there at all. Yet, wouldn’t this season be far more enjoyable if we managed to slow down and do some simple things for ourselves?
Is your response to this suggestion an agitated “but I don’t have time”? Here are some simple suggestions:
Slow down time
Try this quick and easy NLP tip for slowing down time. Raise both arms straight out in front of you with your index fingers pointing up and spaced about 3” apart. Focus your gaze at the gap between your index fingers. Soften your eyes and, with your gaze still looking forward, gradually broaden the space between your fingers. This slowly increases your field of vision. Do this until your arms are straight out to your sides. You will notice a subtle quieting and calming of the mind.
I like to do this when I start to feel scattered. It’s also great for when you are running late. When combined with the affirmation “perfect timing,” this technique is an effective stress reliever and I always seem to arrive at my destination at just the right time.
Other holiday de-stressing tips
At least once a week, take a sea salt or Epsom salt bath with lavender oil (or other essential oil of your choice). Light a few candles, turn off the overhead lights, put on some nice music, and soak away any stress and fatigue.
Spend leisurely time with one or two of your favorite people. Meet for tea or a glass of wine and just enjoy each other’s company with no agenda. Sharing time with those who are dear to us helps us to slow down and keep things in perspective.
Get enough sleep. Most Americans don’t get enough sleep at any time of the year. Making sure that you get adequate rest allows you to take the busyness of the holiday season in stride with greater ease, makes you feel more cheerful, and helps ensure that you stay healthy throughout the season.
What other simple things can you do to take care of yourself? Taking the time to do these things is the best gift you can give yourself. It will make the difference between surviving the holidays and fully enjoying them.