Countdown to Christmas: 12/16/23 — “Give Yourself a Break”

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 16th Day of Advent … GIVE YOURSELF A BREAK.

Here are today’s instructions:

There is a lot to enjoy about Christmas but sometimes we just need a break. From the advertising beginning in autumn, to the increased social and family contact, to the repetition of the same Christmas songs on TV and radio, we must remain wary of it all becoming a bit too much.

At some point this season, when you notice signs of stress coming on or when you feel that you have earned a break, use this task as a free token to take an hour or two out in which you do something relaxing and comforting that has nothing to do with Christmas and that is just for you.

Treat yourself. It could be a deep, long bath or an extended lie in in the morning. It could be a solo bike ride or trip to the cinema. As you spend your time away from the Christmas grind, enjoy, without guilt, the benefits of catering to yourself.

Let go of all other concerns for this period. Indulge yourself in the comfort of doing something just for yourself. Mindfully savour each moment. Note the positive emotions that you feel as the time unfolds. Finally, return refreshed to the duties of the day.

Remember that exercising self-compassion is not a selfish act – it is an important contributor to a healthy emotional well-being.

Take a break and put on the brakes to stress.

(P.S. HR gave me a wonderful gift/break yesterday — a deep tissue massage at Savannah’s beautiful Peacefully Rooted studio. It was gloriously relaxing and rejuvenating.)