Imagine … feeling a huge sense of relief that during this holiday season you didn’t need to find the perfect presents, design and send the perfect cards, prepare the perfect food, be the perfect host(ess). We have filled this season with expectations that are enforced all around us via our media outlets: a wonderful meal, everyone in their most beautiful outfit looking happy and well rested, enjoying hanging out with family and friends. Yet this is often an illusion. Instead of peace, we feel stressed. Maybe we are stressed over the financial strain of gift giving. Maybe we grief over the loss of loved ones, or instead of taking part in wonderful, kind conversations we end up in wildly painful political or religious discussions full of blame and emotions. Even if you’re this busy with a heart full of love for family and friends, there might come a moment when it is all too much.
And if you are among those who really do have an almost perfect holiday season, maybe you still need some time for yourself, to reconnect with yourself.
So treat yourself to a few moments of quiet! You can find it anywhere you look, even in the midst of all activities. You could stand in front of the window and stare outside, or lean into the sink and admire the soapy water, or just focus at the faces of those around you and marvel. Take a moment and enjoy a breath. Your presence is your greatest gift! Simply being yourself, right here, right now. When others ask what it is you are doing, you can share that you are enjoying being present. A simple gesture of looking them in the eye and inviting them to take a breath together could be a way to share this present of being present. Even if you feel they might not understand, knowing that you are present for yourself can create the space you need to show up for yourself with compassion. We all deserve moments like this.
When we are in a place where we feel our lives are aligning with who we are and what we desire and what we value, we can take charge and help create the world we want to see - for ourselves and others.
Imagine Mindfulness wishes you a New Year filled with moments like this. Moments where you know that your presence, just your presence, is your greatest contribution to everyone around you. You are unique and whole - in your own “imperfect” way. Take a mindful breath, invite compassion and curiosity, and become aware of what is present. The holidays are about peace - and what better place to start than with peace within.
Summer Meyer
CEO
