Suzanne Askham

Wellbeing notes: Wishing you a mindful festive season

Two women were talking in the library. “I have to confess,” said one, “that Christmas is not my favourite time of year.”  “Same!” said the other. “It’s just too busy, isn’t it? I’ll be worn out by the 25th.”

Since I happen to be one of the many who try a bit too hard to get everything ‘right’ in the run-up to Christmas, this year I’m choosing to be less stressed and more mindful, with the following gentle strategies.

Use your senses

Warming aromas of orange and cinnamon. The crackle of paper as you wrap your gifts. Experiencing the world through your senses is the best way to inhabit each moment of your life. Everything you do in this state of sensory awareness is enhanced. A gift prepared mindfully can bring the recipient a sense of calm which can be at least as important as any monetary value. 

Practise gratitude

Savour the segments of a tangerine and truly take in nature’s abundance. Look around you at the next social gathering, whatever it may be, and enjoy the miracle of other beings. Each person is special when viewed through non-judgemental eyes. When you receive a present, appreciate above all the love behind it.

Choose simplicity

In a nutshell, give yourself ample time to do a little less. An uncomplicated meal of natural ingredients can taste nicer than complex dishes. And a few branches brought in and decorated simply can bring you and your loved ones that elusive thing: a childlike pleasure in Christmas.