Whoa! It’s Christmas

This time of year can catch up on us very quickly to find that we have less patience, feel fragmented, physically as well as emotionally stressed, and most importantly of all, we can be stretched for time. Our environment at work and at home can seem chaotic and the people around us may appear unsupportive and insensitive to our needs.

Even if you absolutely love Christmas or don’t celebrate it at all – it’s hard not to be affected … or dare I say infected.

For some, there will be times that you could pull your hair out and scream, as the relationships and planning towards a happy family Christmas start to break down causing you distress.  For others who have lost loved ones, loved ones are unwell, or you are spending Christmas on your own, you may be struggling with feelings of fatigue, grief, loss and isolation.

As you struggle, there may seem to be a loose wire that disconnects you from your inner self. That balanced and knowing part of you that knows love, compassion, generosity, celebration and happiness. You know of it, yet you just can’t seem to reconnect to it!

Your body, mind and spirit is aching for you to STOP and BREATHE and fix that loose wire, with the intent, that loving energy will flow with ease once again.

So why do we put so much pressure on ourselves whether that be emotional, physical or financial? Why can some of us feel so lost, isolated and experience so much sadness and frustration? How can we reconnect to the spirit of Christmas or even the spirit of love, our connection to Source/God?

Below I share some strategies that may support and ignite the light within, hopefully assisting you to feel lighter, happier and at peace:

1. Breathe out and let the stress fall away. Sit down with a pen and paper and empty your thoughts and feelings onto the page. Or sit with a trusted friend, or professional counsellor, and be heard. Sometimes when we open to communicate we take the pressure off the mind and body, empowering us to see and feel with clarity and gain perspective.
2. Look after yourself and take time out whether that be a walk in the park, a yoga class, or receive a massage, Reiki, or some other form of nurturing. Whilst in this experience be mindful of your breath, be present, and let go of the concerns around you, giving yourself permission to just BE. 
3. Think positive thoughts – Remind yourself that your thoughts create your world. If you have thoughts that are not loving or supportive of you, say, “CANCEL, CANCEL, CANCEL”. You do know, its okay to be happy.
4. There is great comfort in remembering those awesome moments and experiences that made your heart sing. Those memories will help to raise your vibration.
5. Meditate daily – only ten minutes per day will have a positive effect.
6. Know that when you feel reconnected, anchored and in your centre, the very things that upset you may seem less of an obstruction. You’re likely to feel more energised and happy, which could create a positive ripple effect especially to those close to you as they will experience the brightness of your spirit.
7. Each day ensure that you check-in with your body and mind, and recharge and rebalance yourself regularly.

The loss of a loved one …

1. This time of year can be very difficult. You and your family may choose to write individually on a piece of paper one of your happiest memories with that person, describing it in detail and then placing it in a beautiful gift box. Then at your family Christmas get-together, you could place your gift boxes in a basket under the Christmas tree, and during the day sit around together and one by one place your hand in the basket, pull out a gift box, and read what has been written to the rest of your family. There you can share your happy memories and tears in honour of your loved one whilst supporting each other.
2. Lighting a candle for those that you have lost and talking to them can also bring great comfort.

Alone at Christmas …

1. If you are alone at Christmas, you could do what I have done for many years and that is say yes to invites from friends, or you could instead treat yourself to some good food, a fun video and sit and enjoy your own time in your sanctuary, reminding yourself that it is only one day. This is a great time for meditation, contemplation and tuning out if you like. Can you tell I’m an introvert? lol.
2. I do know of many others that have chosen to create their own special ritual at this time of year. Such as; creating an event for an orphans Christmas where you invite families or singles that may be alone and away from extended family at this time of year. Arrange to meet at a public park and set the intent that each person bring along a fun activity and food to share. I have organised one of these and it was one of my most memorable Christmas days.

Remember, that you are never alone … if you believe in angels, guides, God and many other benevolent beings, know that they are always with you. Take the time, and openly share with them. Ask them to support you.

They may send you little signs such as; yours or a loved one who has passed favourite song may play on the radio, white feathers may appear along your path, a gentle warm or cool breeze flowing past you. Your attention may be drawn to a particular book, or photograph, you may even sense a familiar smell that makes you feel comforted.

Most of all, if you do feel in crisis and are unable to speak with those around you. Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 (Australia).

A Christmas Candle … Poem by Maria Lacey

A Christmas candle I light today,
May it bring an abundance of love your way.
Those in our hearts, no longer here.
May you feel their love,
So true, so dear.
Today, I remember those here and there,
And count my blessings for the love we share. 
You are the light and love within me,
Fond memories are stored for eternity.

Merry Christmas and may 2016 be filled to the brim with happiness, love, peace and prosperity.

With love and blessings,