The holiday season is here! We have hopefully been getting prepared for all the magic of it in advance, it just makes it all a lot easier nearer the time and without a last-minute rush…or so we think.
Every year we dash round the shops or spend time online ordering gifts and all the food and drink treats. People try so hard to make everything perfect, but often it is those imperfections that can make it fun and memorable, something forgotten, an improvisation takes place, but if you are among loving, caring people, or even on your own, it is all okay. How many people spent lockdown on their own? People survived, all parts of life help one adjust to the different situations.
Being festive fabulous isn’t about having every single item of food or drink that is desired, or looking good, it is about embodying the joy, warmth, and the sparkle of the season in every aspect of your life, appreciating the value of life itself and why one should be a good person. There are those that are not so religious, yet still want to enjoy the festivities, and that is great, so long as it is remembered that it is a time to be kind and caring, without harsh words or bad words.
Attitude and actions are key to celebrate in style and make every moment unforgettable. Don’t be pressured to conform to traditions if they don’t resonate with you. Create your own rituals that reflect your personality and values.
Amid all the hustle and bustle, take time to recharge; a calm and centred mindset will help you enjoy the season yourself to the fullest. Don’t be manipulated into doing everything, running around after everyone else, leaving you exhausted and not actually enjoying any part of it yourself. Sharing is caring, get everyone to participate in some way in the preparation and clearing, or you may end up resenting the whole thing and the people that manipulated you in the first place or that just don’t help.
It is a celebration of life, connection and joy. By dressing stylishly, creating and enchanting environment, indulging in some delicious indulgence and spreading kindness, you will embody the true essence of the holidays. Do what makes you sparkle and shine, whether it is the house full of lights, colour, decor, happy clothing style – just make it memorable with good mindset, positive attitude full of love and laughter, even when you may have to see people you are not overly keen or impressed with.
If you are hosting, whether you are throwing a lavish party or an intimate gathering, make everyone feel welcome and appreciated; it is the one day, make it yours and own it. It is all about attitude, so embrace every moment, create and share your enthusiasm with those around you, it is like a sprinkling of fairy dust on others, but you of course have the bottle of it.
Gifts should be thoughtful, personalized efforts that show your loved ones and real genuine people how much you care. Your time can be the most precious gift of all, sending a present without actually being present may not really mean so much for those that would really love to see you and be with you.
Acts of kindness go a long way – it can make you feel useful to others, the act of giving and kindness releases endorphins in our brain which are natural feel-good chemicals, leading to sensations of satisfaction, happiness and purpose – we feel a positive emotional response to doing something beneficial for someone else.
Volunteer at a local charity or surprise a lonely neighbour or elderly person with a holiday treat and sharing some time with a cup of coffee and a chat with them. Your kind gesture of time with a warm hug will shine brighter than any other gift.
So, get happy, get sparkly, drink and be merry with all the people you want to see, and it doesn’t have to stop at Christmas day. Make other times and days for the parties of people you want to be with, be it before Christmas day or after, meet for dinner at a restaurant, or coffee or drinks somewhere, it is about being with those you love.
Love and Sparkles
Samsara x
