December 2021 is here!
We almost made it through another year.
One more month to go and that is a celebration on its own, don't you think?
As we reflect on the past year, I invite you to celebrate your accomplishments, whether you think there were big or small. Getting through another day is worth celebrating just as much as any significant goals you accomplished this year.
Stress, Loneliness, Overstimulation.
The Holiday seasons are usually pretty hectic. We spend our time:
going to parties or hosting them (even during COVID times which can make it more challenging and nerve-wracking),
shopping for our loved ones (while on a tight budget or not),
feeling homesick (if we're away from our loved ones),
feeling lonely as we're trying to navigate through it all as the light gets dimmer.
Dreams, Lights, Wonders.
It's also a magical time where we get to see the season through the children's eyes around us and within us.
A time for hope, change, and connection. A time where our imagination sparkles with the twinkling of the lights, the songs we hear, and the warmth in our hearts.
Three easy ways to help us spread Joy through the Holidays
To help you through the season, here are three things you can add to your Holiday routine and bring a smile to your face.
Love On Yourself!
It starts with YOU!
Nights are the longest of the year. So when the light outside is dimmer, let your own light shine brighter. Take time for yourself, light candles around the house, take a warm bath with fresh rose petals and your favorite essential oil, lather yourself in your favorite lotion, listen to your favorite songs. Do all the little things that make you feel special. Nourish your body and your mind thoroughly and with love so you can share your light with all around you.Buy Yourself A Gift!
You worked hard all year long; you took care of your partner, kids, pup/kitty, friends, and family. You have been there for them to the best of your ability.
You deserve to reward yourself.
Give yourself something that gives you a "feel good" sensation all over your body. It doesn't have to be extravagant, but it can be. It just has to be something you really want.
Something that makes you feel special.
Make your own heart melt.The Power Of Giving
I love bringing a smile to someone's face, and giving to others fills my heart with so much joy.
That's what the season is about, isn't it? Spreading joy?
I invite you to share yourself in different ways. First, of course, you can buy a unique gift or service from a local independently owned business/store (I love supporting the community), but you can also give something of yourself:If you're a musician, share your music, invite your friends to join.
if you're a visual artist, share the art that makes your heart sing
If you love cooking, cook a special meal for your BFF
If you're a yoga teacher, gift your students/friends a short class (mantra, meditation, vinyasa flow, beginners…)
In other words, whatever you love, share it authentically. Let people in!
Share your Joy!
It's also important to me to give back to charity or to fundraisers to make a someone's dream come true. To me, it's what the Holiday Spirit is all about.
Choose a charity or cause that speaks to you and if you can't give monetarily, give your time. It is just as important, if not more.
Are you inspired to spread Joy this December?
Your family, friends, neighbors, community, and the world need it!
With Love from Santa Monica,
Happy December, Y'all!