LET’S SLOW DOWN AND BREATHE
Hello there and happy Tuesday! I hope this week finds you stepping back to check in with how you feel and what you need in the coming weeks. I'm drinking a matcha latte this morning and thinking about reminding myself that I have choices.
The holiday season is in full swing, my friends (did you sign up for my free Christmas Day class yet?)! And while we've turned it into the season of flying in all directions and feeling the entire range of feelings, the season of Winter is arguably a time for going inward, finding stillness and guarding our energy.
In class last night, we explored our practice with closed eyes and for most people, that small shift forced all movement to be more slow and deliberate. When we removed the outward focus, going inward became a key way of being supported and finding balance.
The same can be applied if you want to find a little balance now. Yes, you probably have things you are committed to, things you are excited about, and things you wish somebody else could take care of. But what I find so fascinating about this time of year is how often I hear people say "I HAVE to do this" or "people EXPECT me to do that". Like the joy of the holiday season will absolutely be crushed if you don't buy everyone in your office a tiny bottle of Bailey's in the five spare minutes you have this weekend.
I'm no stranger to this narrative. One of my annual traditions is sending out a pile of holiday cards. I love snail mail and it makes me so happy to send a little love this way. However, last year I was struggling with it. I couldn't find the time or the energy to do it, and I noticed myself saying "well I HAVE to do it. People are EXPECTING cards from me!" But when I slowed down and checked in with myself, I realized that I send cards because I love it. I send them because my Mom used to do it and it feels nice and nostalgic to do it. I also realized that it's a choice and I certainly don't have to force myself if it's adding stress and turning it into something I resent. So as uncomfortable as it felt, I let it go and only sent out a very small handful. It was truly a weight off my shoulders and guess what? No one sent me a text saying "What the hell, Helen? Where's my card?!?!?!" Because people are nice and we all get it. Life gets nuts and sometimes we need room to breathe.
So! My invitation to you today is that you pause. Take a few slow deep breaths. And ask yourself the following questions:
What am I looking forward to in the next few weeks?
What do I actually need to do?
What can I ask for help with?
What can I let go of this year, even if it makes me uncomfortable?
After each question, close your eyes and really let yourself consider. You will have knee jerk reactions which is why it's important to go inward and let yourself feel everything before you make a decision. I promise you that there are things you can drop. And of the things you are keeping, sometimes you need the simple reminder of why you do them and what you love about them. Let yourself really enjoy the things that you like. Don't rush through them.
You are allowed to enjoy the season, no matter how hectic. You are also allowed to slow down, check in with yourself and let go of certain things if it makes your life easier.
As always, I'd love to hear about it! What did you discover from the questions above? How are you giving yourself the gift of space this season? Let me know in the comments below.
As you move through this week, remember to treat yourself and your body with love, respect and kindness.
Much love,
Helen xo
