Alleviating Holiday Stress
The most enjoyable time, as well as the most stressful time, of the year is almost here. Let’s have lots of fun and stress less.
At a recent gathering while enjoying an after dinner tête-à-tête, one person blurted out ‘Mindfulness, shindefulness! As if I don’t have enough stress, now you expect me to add mindfulness to the heap of tasks I must do!’
Most of you know the practice of meditation that results in mindfulness is exact opposed of stress. It alleviates stress. Here is a tip for bringing peace and joy into your days of shopping, cooking, entertaining, warmth and what not.
Just for five minutes (time yourself) sit comfortably at a place where you can be alone, (even if it is in the bathroom). Use earplugs to decrease noise. Focus on your breath. As you breathe in and breathe out sense your body. Sense it from the soles of your feet to the top of your head, one part at a time. Stay in this position until your body is still. Are you aware of your whole body? Are you conscious of your inner body?
Abide in the warmth that your inner body exudes. Now rub your palms together. Apply their warmth to your eyes and face. Bring the palms together and bow in humble gratitude.
For the next eight hours you’re good to go! Repeat!