It seems to be a dichotomy that the holiday season is so joyful, but can also come with it’s stress.  We start to fill our to-do lists to overflowing.  Then we’re off, rushing to buy presents, to showering our homes with seasonal decor, to baking all kinds of comforting dishes and all this is on top of our already full schedules.  And there doesn’t seem to be enough time.

Well no fear, here are 3 sure ways to help transform that holiday stress into the peace and joy that we truly want to experience.

1) Before you get out of bed in the morning GIVE THANKS

The feeling of gratitude first thing before we think about anything else, helps to set a tone of an open heart.  An open heart is more freely able to give and receive with pure intentions, rather than our ego-driven agendas.  Give it a try, give thanks for at least 3 things you are very grateful for in your life. It can be as simple as giving thanks for a good night sleep, a warm bed and clothes on your back.

2) Walk for 15 minutes outside every day

Yes, even if it’s snowing! Bundle up, take the dog, bring a friend, or the great company of inner silence.  Take some time to breath in fresh air, feel the crisp breeze on your face and enjoy this connection with nature.  It will bring a sense of vitality and alertness that nothing else can.  You are in the natural rhythm of life . What a blessing and gift to be alive!

3) Feel & See the gifts that are constantly around you

By gifts, I mean a smile from your child, the touch of your beloved, a warm cup of tea.  Not necessarily all wrapped up in bows, but the simple pleasures of being alive.  Be aware of all these treasures in your life. When we pay attention to the small gifts we’ll be able to see the BIG gifts and meaning more clearly.  Wherever are attention goes, energy flows.  So every hour, imagine God handing you a gift knowing that God always does so in every moment.  Then pay attention to the next hour. Your job will be to recognize the gift as it demonstrates in your life.   The gifts are plenty.  They come as friends, hugs, helpful hands and peace.  Enjoy them all in order to feel the Peace and Grace in your life!!

Happy Holidays to you and yours. I am so grateful you are in my life. And I cherish every moment we share on this beautiful Earth.  May peace and joy always be with you!