How to begin and incorporate the practice of bkty into the busiest time of the year.
What is it about the seasons changing that cause us to simultaneously fall into a state of reflection and busyness? One moment we can be “living our best life,” and the next minute, we are dreading the never-ending list of things to do. In spite of the holiday season and the busyness that will surely accompany the weeks ahead, this is the perfect time to commit to ourselves and begin our practice of bkty (be kind to yourself). By learning mindfulness, we create space in our lives to be present, open, and still. Doing so allows us to see the bigger picture instead of picking away at the unfinished corners that we don’t like. It’s time to show ourselves the (self-) compassion that we so richly deserve.
In today’s rush, we all think too much — seek too much — want too much — and forget about the joy of just being. Eckhart Tolle
So, here are 4-quick tips that will help you ease into the practice of bkty through mindfulness and gratitude this holiday season:
1. Set intentions with personal affirmations.
Whether it’s through the use of post-it notes, the note keeper on your iPhone, or a set of bkty cards, use personal affirmations and set the tone and intention for your day. For example, when setting intentions, your affirmation for the day could be “I am _________.” Choose the word that speaks to you, that expresses the desires of your heart. You will find that the affirmations empower you.
2. Reassess Your Relationship to Self-Care.
We often forget the importance of realigning our self-care plan to match the season’s bloom. During the summer months, self-care might look like beach days, rooftop hangouts with friends, or a light stroll along your favorite trail. But as the winter temperatures bring in the snow and dreary days, self-care might be a cup of hot lemon water or cocoa alongside your favorite book. There are so many indoor activities that could help reset your frame of mind, i.e., a nap in front of your fireplace, an afternoon creating your favorite comfort food (and maybe sharing it with loved ones), or submerging yourself in a hot bath accompanied by your favorite oils and salts. Everyone is bound to spend more time inside as the temperatures outside drop, try not to allow your self-care routine to deplete because of the weather.
Women in particular need to keep an eye on their physical and mental health, because if we're scurrying to and from appointments and errands, we don't have a lot of time to take care of ourselves. We need to do a better job of putting ourselves higher on our own 'to do' list. Michelle Obama
3. Meet yourself with daily check-ins.
This may come in the form of journaling, a text message, or just by asking yourself one question. And if you’re an overachiever, you might find yourself doing a bit of all three. Start a text thread in your phone and title it “Love Notes To Self.” Meet yourself with a question like, “What do I need today?” or break out your journal and meditate on your words as they bleed out from your pen to paper. As humans, it’s so hard for us to just allow ourselves to be. But whatever comes up for you during this self-love exercise, surrender to it and give yourself permission to experience it without judgment. Compassion, kindness, and a willing heart -- these are the things that will lead us to the best version of ourselves. Speaking our truth begins with acknowledging it to ourselves.
4. Meditate your way into a positive mindset.
There’s this common misconception surrounding meditation, as many believe it to be a practice of one shutting their mind off and just sitting in complete wonderment for long periods of time. But it isn’t necessarily that; meditation is only your presence + your stillness. It’s a time of non-judgment between you, your mind, and your thoughts, and it serves as an activation period between you and your soul.
Active meditations can happen in the midst of your commute to work, while you sit at your desk, or as you walk your dog up and down your street. If you choose the “traditional” method and sit with legs folded, a good five minutes is all you need to come back to center. Completing a full body scan is often a good way to begin. It reminds us that we are held, that there is space for us on this earth, and that we are vastly supported and divinely connected.
So, as our days begin to get shorter and we go about this winter and holiday season, commit to yourself first in order to serve those around you. Remember that gratitude is the greater good and dig into self-compassion through the practice of bkty.
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