A Mindful Holiday Season

It's hard to believe the holidays are upon us once again. Right now is a great time to set your intentions for the season. Here are a few tips designed to help you move more mindfully and hopefully more joyously.
1. Be realistic. Better to plan a few well thought out activities than a string of stressful events. When making plans take the time to think about what you're hoping to experience from the activity.
2. Make a budget and stick to it. Easier said than done right? One sure fire way to tackle this one is to avoid the temptation. Stay away from the mall, commercials, etc. unless you have a written list in hand and cash in your pocket. Leave the credit cards at home.
3. No. No. No. Repeat. Who wants resentment and frustration to manage on top of holiday traffic. If no can't exit your lips practice saying "Let me know think about that" or "As much as I'd like to, that won't be possible".
4. Reach out. If the holidays bring up sadness, grief or anxiety, make this the year you reach out for support. Find a friend, talk to a co-worker or contact a mental health professional. No need to go through it alone.
5. Give back. Find a little holiday spirit and let it move through you. A simple act of kindness will live on in the lives of those who could use it the most.
6. Take time for yourself. 15 minutes is enough time to recharge. Look up at the sky. Find some new music. Try something that involves doing nothing in particular. Make time to relax!