Finding Joy in the Holidays
Life can be overwhelming at times, especially around the holidays. There are expectations that we put on ourselves or others put on us, and it can be a lot.
Right after my husband passed away, I had to pull back from many things, as I didn’t have the capacity to handle very much. Life was overwhelming and exhausting, and we were in survival mode.
As time passed and the Lord has brought healing to my heart, I have added activities and events back in. But sometimes, I overestimate what I am able to do and truly enjoy. When I start feeling the stress build, and it begins affecting my heart and health, I know it’s time to step back. Here are a few things I do to help refocus my mind and reduce my stress:
Pray and read God’s Word
Only God can bring true hope and peace. He is the ultimate Source of comfort for our souls.
Keep things simple
Participating in everything can be too much. By being selective, it allows us to enjoy what we are doing and be present.
Savor a favorite warm drink
Snuggle up in a cozy blanket and enjoy the quiet.
Keep a gratitude journal
When things get hectic, I find my attitude tanks quickly. By starting the day in God’s Word and journaling about things I am thankful for, it refocuses my heart on what really matters.
Enjoy a shoulder massage
Most of us hold our stress in our shoulders. Grab a tennis ball and the wall and roll out some of the tension.
Take time to notice
Soak in the uniqueness of the holiday season. Slow your heart and thoughts to truly enjoy what’s happening.
Take a walk
Fresh air and exercise work wonders for our hearts and minds.
Enjoy essential oils in your home
Scent is very powerful, and it can benefit us in many ways. By using high quality essential oils, you can enjoy beautiful scents without the worry of toxicity from chemical laden fragrances. Here are some of my favorite ways to use them:
- Inhale them - put a drop in your palm, rub your hands together, and breathe in the aroma.
- Roller bottle - purchase or make a calming roller bottle and apply it to your wrists and neck for a soothing scent. (see the recipe below)
- Room spray - these are an easy way to add an uplifting scent to a room. Just add a few drops of essential oils and some water to a glass spray bottle, shake it up and spritz away.
- Diffuse - ditch the candles and use your diffuser to add nontoxic seasonal scents to your home.
This is such a beautiful time of the year, and often we get so caught up in the busyness of it all. Take time to evaluate what is important and honor that. Having calm space in the busyness allows us to fully enjoy the beauty of gatherings, family, friends, and God’s provision.
How will you find joy and peace this holiday season? Share with us in the comments.
Calming roller bottle
Ingredients
- 6 drops Orange Essential Oil*
- 3 drops Lavender Essential Oil*
- 3 drops Stress Away Essential Oil*
- 10 ml empty roller bottle*
- Sweet Almond Oil* or other carrier oil
Instructions
Add the essential oils to the roller bottle. Top off with sweet almond oil. Place the roller top and lid on the bottle and gently turn upside down a couple of times to mix the essential oils with the sweet almond oil. Roll on your wrists and neck for a calming scent.
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