How to be kind to yourself...
find quiet
find quiet
layer on the blankets
binge watch your favorite show
holiday themed or not
enjoy endless warm drinks
cup the mug and feel the heat transfer
feel it come alive in your hands
read aloud
to yourself, a pet, a loved one
feel the words on your tongue
and how they long to be savored
slow
change traditions to bring joy
save traditions to bring joy
throw out traditions to bring joy
bring joy
feel sorrow as it comes - it will
stand outside in the frigid air
and watch your breath swirl around you
listen for sleigh bells
remember there is a season for everything
take a bath
let the steam surround you
feel the pull of water over and under the body
as the tub drains
linger over dinner
over dishes
over life
share your expectations
if you have them
but try not to have too many
don't wallow in 'why didn't they'
ask 'can you?'
listen to your body
as it tells you to rest
allow yourself your feelings
honor what rises
what swells
what calls for attention
find space in the cracks
find joy in the sorrow
find quiet
and savor
The above is a post I wrote a few years ago, but it's as relevant as it was back then. I hope you enjoyed it, and are finding some space for kindness in this season.
I'm signing off in this space until the new year, but tomorrow I'll be sending out the last newsletter of 2018! You can sign up here if you haven't already. And... I installed disqus to use for comments. I'm hoping that resolves some of the comment issues I had been having. Let me know what you think. I hope all have a happy holiday season, and thank you for continuing to read my words, here and elsewhere!