There is an old saying, yesterday is history, tomorrow a mystery, but today is a gift – that’s why it’s called the present. I couldn’t say it any better. It’s true, and it’s my hope that you can live this holiday season with the present in your heart and mind.
Being present is the essence of Mindful Living. It’s a conscious decision to live in the moment. It’s easy to get caught up in the hectic pace, especially during the holiday season as we chase down the perfect decorations, outfit or gift in the name of celebration. So, I challenge you throughout the month of December to think of the present as a gift you give to yourself.
Live each moment aware of all that surrounds you. Be fully present when spending time with a friend or family member. Experience the smell of snow in the air, or heirloom cookies in the kitchen. Hear the laughter of children in their excitement and wonder of the season, or the tears of a lonely soul needing comfort. Feel the loving embrace of relatives as you welcome them in for a holiday meal.
You may be surprised at the true gifts both given and received when you choose to begin living mindfully. You’ll realize real life takes place in the simple, mundane and ordinary moments of this season.
Blessings,
Kathleen
The Heart of Tradition
At the mere mention of the holidays, our “to do” list instantly doubles with an over abundance of buying gifts, planning parties, pleasing parents, kids and in-laws, and all the preparations that go along with creating the picture perfect holiday. Fitting it all in, amidst our already busy lives, is a self imposed stress test. However, the very act of trying to do it all is at the expense of missing the real meaning of celebrating faith and family.
“Fitting it all in creates stress for everyone during the holiday season,” said Dr. Kathleen Hall. “When we focus on celebrating with family rituals and traditions, we enjoy the true gifts of the holiday season,” said Hall.
Dr. Hall offers her top five tips for making traditions and rituals the focus for a stress-LESS holiday. Read Now. . .
Fear or Cheer?
There’s no doubt it, this holiday season will go down as one of the most financially depressed environments in nearly a quarter century. If the thought of the holidays ignites more fear than cheer this year, you’re not alone. The nation’s economy has had more ups and downs than a reindeer trying to take flight; and nearly 1.8 million people are out of work. The financial fear can become paralyzing, but don’t despair. With the right approach to holiday financial stress, this holiday season could actually prove to be one of your most meaningful and memorable.
Dr. Kathleen Hall, shares her five tips to creating calm in the face of holiday financial stress. Read Now. . .
Mindful Minute
A new year and new you is just a few weeks away. Begin your countdown this month to start 2009 focused and feeling good about yourself. In just four weeks you’ll see how easy it is to live a balanced life when you implement the practices of S.E.L.F. Care. Commit just five minutes a day to practicing serenity, exercise, love, and food. By the time the new year begins, you’ll be on your way to living from the inside out, and practicing the 4 roots of true happiness.
Put Dr. Kathleen Hall’s S.E.L.F. Care Program® into practice and for a new year of happiness. Read More. . .