Being Mindful During the Holidays

  • Posted on: Nov 29 2018
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Holidays are time for fun, family and food. Time to be thankful for many things. Time to spend quality time with parents, children, grand-children, friends and co-workers.

But holidays can also be stressful. Some people may be lonely because they don’t have family close-by, same may be anxious about meeting with family and others may be stressed about hosting.

One way to enjoy the holidays is by being mindful. Mindfulness is being aware of what is happening in the moment—being present without judgement. Here are a few ways you can be mindful during the holidays.

  1. Listen attentively to family and friends: Spend your time listening attentively to close family. Inquire about family members who are sick. Reach out to those who have had a bad year. Show them you care.
  1. Be non-judgmental: Just as you wouldn’t want your friends and family to judge you, make sure you don’t judge anyone during the holidays. Remember this is a fun time, not time to comment on their career failures, weight gain or poor dress sense.
  1. Eat mindfully: Good food may be the best part of the holidays. While this may not be the time to work on your weight loss goals, it is definitely a time where you can be more mindful about how much you eat. Eat slowly so you can savor the foods and stop eating when you are full.
  1. Invite friends or family to go for a walk with you: It is a merry time of year. You will be surprised how much people will open up when you just go out for a walk with them. This way you get your exercise and a great conversation.
  1. Practice digital mindfulness: This is not the time to be glued to the TV or your smart phone. Make a conscientious decision not to touch your iPhone or laptop while you are with family or friends this holiday. Just be present in the moment and enjoy it!

Have a Wonderful Holiday!

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