Appreciate Stillness in the Season of Light

To a mind that is still, the whole universe surrenders. ~Lao-tzu

The glorious Season of Light is a beautiful time to relax and be still, even if only a few minutes here and there, breathe deeply and simply be. 

Year-end festivities, traditions, travel and gatherings bring joy. They can also lead to overwhelm and exhaustion—but only if you give your power to them.

If you start feeling caught up in a whirlwind, try these ways to use stillness to help restore and revive yourself:

1. Before starting an activity, whether attending a concert or catching an airplane, take a few moments to be still, breathe deeply and set your intention. For example, envision your on-time arrival at the airport, smooth connections and a comfortable flight.
 
2. In the flurry of shopping, find a place to sit down. Close your eyes, take some deep breaths and let the energy of shoppers swirl around you. Single out smells and sounds that delight you. Let yourself bask in them.
 
3. When you are preparing a festive meal, writing holiday greetings or wrapping gifts, give yourself a few short breaks.  Close your eyes, take some deep breaths and anticipate the joy that your meal, greetings and gifts will give those who receive them.

Keep savoring moments to be still. Let the peace and beauty of the Season of Light infuse you.  And appreciate the magic that happens when, as Lao-tzu said, “the whole universe surrenders.”