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Chitra Eder's avatar

What a beautiful reminder about creating space for ourselves, thank you. Your words about mindfulness sparked some thoughts about tools I love sharing for navigating overwhelming times.

One practice I've found deeply nourishing is what I call 'kitchen meditation' - those moments between tasks when we can pause and really notice what's around us. Every time I make ghee (my favorite monthly ritual), I watched how the butter transforms through distinct stages - from chaotic bubbling to perfect clarity. It reminded me how our nervous systems can settle the same way if we give them time.

To add to your wonderful toolbox, here are a few practices from Ayurvedic tradition that complement what you've shared:

Hot water sipping - sounds simple but it's like a reset button for your system. Just pause, hold the warm cup, and feel yourself ground down. A moment of pure presence.

Oil at pulse points - keeping a tiny bottle of calming oil (like lavender or rose) nearby or in your bag. Just 2-3 drops on your wrists can shift your whole state when you're standing in that endless holiday line (if anyone does that anymore).

The exhale pause - before walking into any situation that might be draining, take three breaths but focus on the space after the exhale. It's like finding a tiny pocket of peace you can carry with you.

Thank you for opening this important conversation. I find that the simplest tools are the most powerful, especially when we share them with each other. 💝

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Debi Smith's avatar

Holidays have been challenging for our family, so we decided to step back from them. 2021 was the last Christmas we decorated for or exchanged gifts. Since then, it’s been much more peaceful. We still do a big Thanksgiving and then gather for my eldest's birthday on December 30th. Instead of Christmas, we’ve chosen to make birthdays throughout the year more special. My husband and I still enjoy seeing the Christmas lights and attending holiday events when we feel like it, but we’ve opted out of the full celebration, and while it’s been a bit strange, it’s also surprisingly wonderful not to celebrate. Telling people we don't "celebrate" Christmas does give us odd looks and questions. But I don't mind!! Happy Holidays to all!!!

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