How to Cultivate Peace During the Holidays

We are entering the holidays season real soon, Peace on Earth is always what comes to mind first, yet the holidays can feel anything but that. So much to do. The prep time is loaded with extra work and school commitments, to-do lists, decorating, holiday card writing, food and gift shopping, cooking, baking, wrapping, parties and events.  Phew! Although all of this can be very fun in the moment as we gather with our friends and family, the hustle and bustle may leave us feeling a bit depleted by the start of the New Year.  Instead of allowing holiday drain to set in- create quiet time everyday, Experts say even one minute of mindfulness will change our physiology for the better. Practice with conscious breathing and an intention to calm and soothe yourself this simple mindfulness exercise. I’m hopeful you’ll find your inner peace this holiday season with my tried and true steps.

Using essential oils to enhance my meditation practice has been “essentially” pleasing and grounding to my nervous system!

·      Find a comfortable seat or lie down.  Limit distractions, silence smartphone and notifications. Sometimes the places we need meditation may be amidst loud surroundings. If this is common for you, do your best to find the quiet around you.

·      Grab your favorite Young Living Essential Oil.  Suggestions for this time of year -  Peace and Calming, Stress Away, Frankincense, Myrrh, Joy, Harmony, Christmas Spirit, Nutmeg, Thieves, Release, Forgiveness or Lavender.  Place a couple drops in the palm of your hand.  Cup your hands over your nose and create a “scent tent”.  Take several breaths here noticing how the sense of smell has drawn you into yourself using essential oil.

·      Allow your hands to return to your lap with your palms facing upward or if lying down one hand on your belly, one on your heart.

·      Close your eyes or tilt your head down about 45 degrees and focus on a spot near you.  I prefer meditation with my eyes open because life is led with eyes open and this practice makes for a connected transition when applying mindfulness to a situation in real life situations. But feel free to close your eyes for an “eyelid rest” too.

·      Don’t change anything,  just watch the gentle rise and fall of your breath.

·      When your mind wanders, gently bring your attention back to your breathing and notice a sense of calm.

Spending quality quiet time in this space brings our minds back to the present moment instead of constantly anticipating what will happen next in life.

In Good Health,

Peace & Love this holiday season and more!

Jules