How Yoga & Mindfulness Can Get You Through the Holidays

Christmas decorations are already beginning to take over retailers... Can you sense the tension of the holidays? The stress of getting everything done and ensuring that everyone, including yourself, has a wonderful time often interferes with what should be a thoughtful and peaceful time with family.

But what if you didn't have to feel anxious over the holiday season? What if there was a way to celebrate the season without feeling obligated? You can, which is wonderful news! You might manage this holiday season better than ever if you add some yoga and mindfulness exercises to the mix.

We've compiled some great advice to help you get through the holiday season unscathed!

Practice Mindfulness

Even when you don't feel like it, mindfulness requires being in the present moment. The goal is to recognize that feelings and thoughts are a part of the present moment but will change, rather than allowing ourselves to become overwhelmed by them. When practicing mindfulness, there is only observation; there is no right or wrong.

Do a self-check to assess how you are feeling before you go to any events. Examine your sensations and ideas while you take a few deep breaths. Observe them without judging them as excellent or evil. Consider the following while taking a few deep breaths and expanding your abdomen each time.

Be present

Stress is frequently caused by planning for the present rather than dwelling on the past or the future. By focusing on being present instead of worrying about what might happen in the future or in the past, we can greatly reduce the anxiety and tension that might result from this. The holiday season frequently entails a series of events, but if you can learn to focus exclusively on each one as it happens, that should help to reduce stress. Undoubtedly, you'll need to undertake some planning for the future, but set aside time to accomplish this and avoid being stuck in a cycle of continually considering what comes next!

Let go of expectations

Especially around the holiday season, we frequently have preconceived notions about how we want things to be or turn out. Set aside your holiday expectations and just let things happen. Nothing will happen as planned, but that doesn't mean you can't appreciate things for what they are right now. You can more easily roll with the punches if you don't have great expectations for the holidays.

Be compassionate to yourself and others

Treat yourself and your family with kindness. You'll actually enjoy the holiday season better if you don't push yourself too much. If you need to, spend some alone time with yourself. Then, release the tension by being present-focused. Recognize that despite appearances, people are usually just trying their best. Try to avoid bringing up old resentments and instead focus on the enjoyable times. Whether they are specifically related to the holiday season or were simply a pleasant moment in your day, think back on the positive things frequently.

Practice yoga when you can

You shouldn't skip or neglect your yoga practice throughout the Christmas season. If anything, you should schedule more yoga sessions around the holidays to help you de-stress and relax. Sun salutations or other exercises that will relieve stress at the end of the day can always be done quickly.

Concentrate on your breathing

During the holidays, finding a peaceful location to meditate or practice some yogic mantra might really help. You'll be able to quiet your mind and direct your attention away from all the thoughts that are currently running through it. Tension that accumulates throughout the Christmas season can be greatly reduced with the aid of yoga and mindfulness.

Even if you adore this season and are having a good time, the abundance of events and things to do might become a little overwhelming and strain your body. Don't underestimate the strength that doing yoga and being aware can have for you.