I have a plan to keep the holidays simple. Do you? Will we stick to our plans, or will they be sabotaged by the expectations and our imaginatings of the perfect Christmas? It's easy to dream of that Currier and Ives image in our heads, but not so easy to recreate it in our reality. Today Footsteps in Eden shares some real and really practical tips for arriving at Christmas Day having enjoyed the journey through the next few weeks.
I adapted these "Holiday Stress Reduction Tips" from an article by Dr. Dolores Digaetano, which appeared in the MEMPHIS COMMERCIAL APPEAL several years ago. I have shared them before, but believe they are worth repeating. And I've added a few of my own. Praying at least one or two speak to you that you may find yourself able to determine what is truly important and be able to truly ENJOY the season. It's here. Let's embrace it!
1. Try a new exercise routine (remember that there is no such thing as inappropriate weather for walking, riding a bike, etc., only inappropriate clothing.)
2. Limit social obligations to people you really like.
3. Spend no more than 1 percent of your annual income on gifts.
4. Pay cash.
5. Give of yourself (volunteer in some capacity).
6. Brighten someone's day.
7. If your current holiday traditions aren't enjoyable to you, then make new ones.
8. Make a list of your blessings.
9. Spend more time in silence and nature.
10. Wonder
11. Rest
Additional suggestions from Footsteps In Eden Reflexology and Heaven Scent Essentials
12. Massage a few drops of Valor® essential oil blend on the feet each morning and evening. This may bring balance to the body. Add a drop of Joy® essential oil blend over the heart. Inhale deeply of the aromas.*
13. Enjoy the treat of a PURE therapeutic grade essential oil bath. Mix several drops of Lavender or Peace & Calming® essential oil with 1/2 cup of epsom salts, baking soda, rock salt, mineral salts (or a combination of the above). Pour under running water as tub is filling. Relax and de-stress as you breathe in the pure aromas. Your body and your spirit may thank you.*
14. Diffuse Peppermint essential oil in your vehicle. Place 2-3 drops on a cotton ball and place in the air vent.You may find this to be quite uplifitng as well as calming in stressful situations like holiday traffic.*
15. My Best Suggestion — Give yourself permission to relax. Footsteps In Eden Reflexology offers a wonderful experience in relaxation, and we still have a few openings before Christmas.
16. Take time to meditate and contemplate the birth of the Savior we celebrate!!!!
*(Essentials oils mentioned above may be purchased at Heaven Scent Essentials.)
