Self-Care Tips For the Holidays (or Anytime)
We can always use more peace in our lives, especially this time of year. So here are some of my favorite self-care tips from author and spiritual teacher Thich Nhat Hanh, who was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize by Martin Luther King. Plus, I’ve added a few suggestions I’ve found helpful.
Remember we are worthy, even without doing anything.
Look for conditions of happiness around us and allow ourselves to be nourished by the feelings of joy these bring us.
Practice mindfulness meditation—even one to three minutes of focusing on breathing is helpful. Remembering to smile during the practice releases endorphins and can help us feel better. And mindfulness also helps the brain improve focus. (For anyone with Amazon Prime, I like to listen to the “Meditation” station on Prime Music.)
If painful feelings are present during the mindful breathing, we can embrace the pain, listen to what it has to tell us and teach us, be loving and kind to ourselves. Sometimes I give myself a hug and reassure my inner child. Understanding our pain always brings compassion, which is healing and helps us feel better.
Remember, those who cause us pain are often in pain themselves. When we’re in less pain, we’re more able to be kind.
Whatever we feel we’re missing, try and give this to someone else who might need it. Even if that’s just understanding, or a kind word or message. Kindness given comes back to us many times over, and helps create happiness.
Don’t be afraid to speak from your heart and let others know if you’re struggling.
Wishing you all wonderful holidays, full of loving kindness and peace.