Despite the festivities, garland, and twinkle lights, the holidays can sometimes leave us feeling a bit, well, less than tranquil. Here are a few tips to help your holiday season feel more tranquil inside and out:
1. Get outside. Fresh air helps us stay in the moment. Time in nature is grounding and enhances a sense of interconnectedness to help keep things in perspective.
2. Center yourself. During the hustle and bustle it’s extra important to take time for self-care. Keep up your favorite centering practices such as sipping tea, sitting on the cushion, writing in your journal, practicing on your yoga mat, or soaking in the tub.
3. Gift experiences and consumables. Rather than the standard hat and glove combo, consider gifting your loved ones a batch of homemade jam, a beloved book, an artisanal treat from a small business, a box of their favorite tea {or whip up your own blend}, or tickets to see an art exhibit.
4. Be kind to yourself. This time of the year can be hard on some. Be gentle with yourself and know you’re doing the best you can. Practice loving-kindness. Honor your growth, lessons learned, and dreams.
5. Breathe. When you notice your shoulders creeping up toward your ears, your heart racing when stuck in traffic, or stress building, tune into your breath. Inhale to the count of four, exhale to the count of four, repeat. Again and again.
6. Travel lightly {and off-peak}. Print and save this checklist to help your travels go smoothly. Save space by easily rolling your TranquiliT pieces into your luggage. It’s perfect for mixing and matching, dressing up {pearls and heels} or dressing down {clogs and denim jacket}. When possible, choose off-peak travel to avoid congestion and chaos.
7. Express gratitude. Take time to appreciate the little things: a warm bath, a steaming cuppa tea, a cozy bed, a devoted pet. Studies show that expressing gratitude can lower stress levels, help you sleep better, improve self-esteem, enhance empathy, and adjust your attitude.
8. Get moving. Exercise releases endorphins, reduces stress, and helps offset that extra piece of pumpkin pie {confession: I had one for breakfast}. Put on your hiking boots or tennis shoes and get hit the trails. Roll out your yoga mat and do a few sun salutations. Grab your bike and begin pedaling.
What are your favorite ways to stay tranquil during the holidays? Wishing you a holiday filled with loved ones, warm fires, and hot cocoa with marshmallows. Bisous. x
