How to Stay Calm and Relaxed this Holiday Season and Start the New Year with Confidence! A Video from the Writing Yoga® Lab [Prompt #2023]
Dec 24, 2023The holidays are fun, but they can also be seriously stressful. Between endless to-do lists, packed social calendars, and last-minute surprises, things can feel a little overwhelming. A lot of what happens this time of year is outside our control, but we can control how we manage our mindset, our time, and our energy.
When we focus on the people and activities that matter most and lean into what we do best, life feels calmer, more creative, and a whole lot more compassionate. It’s not something that happens overnight, it’s a practice, built bit by bit, but it’s totally doable. Let’s explore a few simple strategies to help you stay relaxed and centered this holiday season.
1. Sit: Create Moments of Stillness in the Holiday Hustle
The holidays can get hectic, and it’s easy to get swept up in everything going on. That’s why it’s so important to slow down and give yourself time to rest. Sitting isn’t just about staying still, it’s about pausing to catch your breath, reflect, and reconnect with yourself. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy cup of hot cocoa or taking a quick break between errands, these little moments of stillness help you stay grounded.
During family gatherings, find chances to sit and soak it all in. After a big meal, relax by the fire with your loved ones. No need to chat or plan, just be. If you’re bouncing from one event to the next, pause in the car for a minute. Close your eyes, take a few deep breaths, and reset before jumping back into the fun.
In the evening, light a candle, sit by the tree, and watch the lights flicker. These small pauses may not seem like much, but they go a long way in helping you recharge and be fully present for the moments that matter.
2. Write: Reflect on the Season with Holiday-Themed Journaling
Writing during the holidays is a great way to slow down, reflect, and soak up the little moments that make the season special. It’s not about long journaling sessions. Just a few minutes here and there can help you clear your mind and stay grounded.
Try keeping a holiday gratitude journal where you jot down small things that brought you joy: the smell of pine trees, a good chat with a friend, or the twinkle of lights on a cold night. On busy days, take a moment to write about what went well, what stressed you out, and what you're looking forward to tomorrow. You can also set intentions: what kind of holiday do you want to create this year? Maybe it’s filled with more laughter, meaningful connections, or simply more peace.
Feeling creative? Write a short holiday-themed poem or a little story inspired by your favorite traditions. Or, instead of a typical to-do list, jot down things you want to do, things that bring you joy. Whether it’s a quick letter to yourself or a playful list of festive activities, writing like this keeps you connected to what really matters during the holidays.
3. Move: Embrace the Energy of the Season with Joyful Movement
The holidays are full of movement, whether you’re running around town, dancing at a holiday party, or chasing snowflakes with the kids. But movement isn’t just about staying active; it’s a way to release stress, lift your mood, and recharge your energy. Finding ways to move that feel fun and joyful can help you reconnect with your body and shake off some of the holiday chaos.
For example, take a walk through your neighborhood and enjoy the holiday lights and decorations. If the weather’s on your side, go ice skating with friends or build a snowman with family. Even if it’s freezing outside, you can always warm up with a dance party at home. Why not put on your favorite holiday playlist and let loose for a few songs?
For quieter moments, try some gentle yoga stretches near the fireplace or Christmas tree to release the tension that builds up from holiday shopping and travel. If you’re wrapping gifts, take a break now and then to stretch your back and shoulders. Movement doesn’t have to be intense or complicated, what matters is that it feels good and brings a little joy into your day.
How to Stay Calm and Relaxed this Holiday Season
Have you ever noticed how ideas seem to flow more easily when you’re relaxed, or how your body feels stronger and more energized when you’re confident? That’s the power of being in sync with yourself. When we make time to Sit, Write, and Move each day, even in small ways, it opens the door for some pretty magical things to happen.
Since 2007, I’ve shared this mantra with my students: Sit, Write, and Move to SWiM through your day feeling calm, creative, and compassionate. It’s not about doing it perfectly, it’s about taking it five minutes at a time, day by day, and trusting that those little moments will add up.
When you combine relaxing poses, thoughtful writing prompts, and intentional movement, SWiMing can become a powerful practice, especially during the holiday season.
If you want to dive deeper, check out the video to explore Writing Yoga® exercises. They’re designed to help you move through the holidays with more confidence, calm, and joy.
Wishing you a peaceful, joyful holiday season and a very happy & healthy 2024! - Stef
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Copyright © 2023 Stefanie Maura, All rights reserved.
