Countdown to Christmas: 12/7/23 — “Embrace Your Jolly Side.”

This year my Countdown to Christmas is a nontraditional Advent Calendar centering (pun intended) on mindfulness.

On the front of each card is neat little picture, and on the back are the instructions for the short meditation.

Today, the 7th Day of Advent … “EMBRACE YOUR JOLLY SIDE.”

Here are today’s instructions:

Time to spread some seasonal cheer. Throughout the day, look for any opportunities to smile, laugh and be jolly, and try to mindfully experience these moments.

It can start when you get up in the morning. Stand in front of the mirror, think a happy thought and smile.

Observe the movements in your face and eyes. See how it makes you feel. Think about why the thought you had is a happy one. Then as the day unfolds, smile at the people you meet and be present in that moment. Notice how the other person reacts to your smile.

Look for opportunities to laugh and to initiate laughter. Talk to a funny friend, share a joke or tell a humorous story, watch a comedy show or film, think back to a funny moment from your life.

Try to be fully present when the laughter comes. Notice the physical sensations it makes you feel. Hear the sound of laughter; observe the facial expressions of the other people laughing with you.

Smiling and laughing are relaxing and help lower the heart rate. Let the jolliness out and notice the positivity and relaxation that it brings.

May you Smile and Laugh a lot today!