The happy holidays aren’t always so happy for some. Perhaps you are not in a place emotionally, physically or spiritually that you’d hoped you’d be at this time. Additionally, the expectations related to family time, socializing and gifting can be quite much. Read here for 5 thoughts to hold close if this resonates with you.

• You are not alone. Please be open to letting someone in when you are in a dark place. They can’t solve your problems but they can face them with you. Give yourself permission to receive support. Letting someone in also lets in enough light to show you a way out of the darkness.
• You are not who you used to be and that’s ok. Life takes us on journeys that sometimes we don’t choose to embark upon. Let’s re-frame this so you can cast aside the fear, believe in yourself and your capacity to heal and grow.
• This is the beginning. It’s important to appreciate and accept the end of an era, a story; to walk away when it’s reached the conclusion. Whether this ending is of your choosing or not, honor that there is no point to hold on to a past that has no future; It’s the point in your story where one chapter leads to the next. Think about using your energy to propel yourself forward rather than creating resistance.
• Your power lies in your present response. You can’t rid yourself of all negative thoughts. Consider changing your response to them. Bring mindfulness to the situation – evaluate the tension you feel, notice the resistance, take a deep cleansing breath, a stretch and relax the tension. Facing the day with less tension and more presence will help you to change your response from one of struggle and resistance to one of serenity and acceptance.
• You don’t have everything you want, but you have enough to move forward. Can you find gratitude for all you have today? Let your positivity and enthusiasm rise up from the doldrums by seizing the opportunity you have right now to be appreciative; appreciative simply for the fact that you have this opportunity to re-frame and do your best to take the next small step forward to the table of life.

This week, as we prepare to celebrate Christmas or Hanukah, I want to remind you to remember to honor yourself and the feast that is already your life.

Slow down, breathe, and go gently into the New year. 

With love, gratitude and my warmest wishes for a wonderful holiday season,

xoxo