Mindfulness at Christmas - finding joy and calm amidst the holiday hustle
Christmas is a season of joy, celebration, and connection—but it can also bring stress, expectations, and overwhelm. From preparing feasts and shopping for gifts to managing family dynamics, the holidays can leave us feeling anything but festive.
Enter mindfulness - a practice that can transform how we approach the season, helping us find balance, calm, and deeper joy amidst the hustle and bustle.
At Making Space’s “Baking Space” event on Wednesday, 11 December, from 11am to 1pm, join us at Café Connect at the Making Space head office on Allen Street, Warrington (WA2 7JB), just a stone’s throw from the town centre. The event will feature Heather Arnold from Find Your Calm Sanctuary CIC, who will lead a special session on supporting mental health during the festive season. Heather’s talk will include practical tips, calming breathing exercises, and strategies for finding moments of peace amidst the holiday rush. You can also find some of Heather's top tips below.
This session is part of Making Space’s “The Real Cost of Christmas” campaign, highlights the unseen emotional toll of the season, particularly for those living with mental health challenges, dementia, or learning disabilities, as well as unpaid carers and individuals who may not celebrate Christmas.
Mindfulness at Christmas: Finding joy and calm amidst the holiday hustle
The Christmas season is often portrayed as a time of joy, connection, and celebration. However, for many, it also comes with a whirlwind of activities, expectations, and stress. From family gatherings and gift shopping to decorating and preparing feasts, the holiday season can leave us feeling more frazzled than festive. Enter mindfulness—a practice that can transform our holiday experience, helping us stay grounded, present, and more connected to the spirit of Christmas.
Understanding mindfulness at Christmas
Mindfulness is the practice of awareness and bringing our attention to the present moment without judgment. It involves tuning into what is happening around and within us. At Christmas, it can mean slowing down, having a moment-to-moment awareness, and letting go of stressors that can overshadow the holiday’s true meaning.
The benefits of a mindful Christmas
• Reduced Stress: Mindfulness helps lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone), enabling us to respond to holiday challenges with greater calm.
• Stronger Connections: Being present allows for deeper, more meaningful interactions with loved ones.
• Enhanced Enjoyment: Savouring each moment, whether it’s decorating the tree or tasting a Christmas chocolate, amplifies joy.
• Greater Perspective: Mindfulness helps us realign with what matters most, reducing the influence of commercialism and expectations.
How to cultivate mindfulness this Christmas
1. Be intentional with holiday plans
Set intentions before the holiday season begins. Consider what you truly want out of Christmas—whether it’s quality time with family, giving back to the community, or simply slowing down. Make decisions about how you spend your time and energy based on these priorities.
2. Find quiet time
Christmas can involve a lot of socialising and busyness. It is a good idea to find time to rest and recharge your batteries. Especially of you are an introvert. This could be a 5-minute meditation, a long soak in the bath, reading a book or taking a mindful walk. We can sometimes do a lot of sitting at Christmas so the exercise and fresh air can lift anxiety and improve your mood.
2. Practice gratitude
Gratitude is at the heart of mindfulness. Take a few moments each day to reflect on what you are thankful for. Share your gratitude with loved ones, and use it as a way to connect with the deeper meaning of the season.
3. Embrace mindful breathing
Amidst the holiday rush, taking a few deep, conscious breaths can be a lifesaver. Try pausing whenever you feel overwhelmed: inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a moment, and exhale slowly. This practice anchors you in the present, easing tension and fostering a sense of calm.
4. Savour holiday moments
Instead of rushing through Christmas traditions, slow down and truly enjoy them. Taste each bite of Christmas dinner, listen closely to the lyrics of your favourite songs, and focus on the warmth of the interactions with loved ones.
5. Let Go of Perfectionism
The pursuit of a “perfect” Christmas can drain joy from the season. Mindfulness teaches us to accept things as they are, flaws and all. Allow imperfections to exist without judgment, whether it’s a burnt pie or a last-minute gift.
6. Be present during gift-giving
When exchanging gifts, focus on the act itself rather than thinking ahead or worrying about your own presents. Notice the recipient’s reactions, express genuine appreciation, and let yourself fully experience the joy of giving and receiving.
7. Create mindful traditions
Incorporate mindfulness practices into your holiday traditions. You could introduce a family meditation on Christmas Eve, a mindful walk through a light display, or quiet reflection time before dinner. These moments of stillness can add depth to your celebrations.
8. Engage in acts of kindness
Mindfulness emphasizes compassion, and the Christmas season is the perfect time to embody it. Whether it’s volunteering, donating, or simply spreading holiday cheer, intentional acts of kindness connect you to the true spirit of Christmas.
9. Stick to your routine
Try to stick to the same time of going to bed and getting up in the morning. If you know you have a late night coming up, have an early night the night before. It is better to bank sleep then get into a sleep debt.
Mindful challenges you may encounter
Practicing mindfulness during the holiday season is not without its challenges. You may face resistance from within—habits of worry, comparison, and expectation may resurface. Similarly, external pressures, such as social obligations or family dynamics, can make staying present difficult. When this happens, treat yourself with kindness and compassion. Recognize that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Try not to judge it or make conclusions, accept it, let it go. Remember everything is temporary, good and bad and it will pass.
The lasting impact of a mindful Christmas
While mindfulness at Christmas brings immediate benefits, its impact can extend far beyond the season. By learning to slow down, connect, and focus on what truly matters, we can carry a more grounded and joyful approach into the New Year.
So this Christmas, amidst the bright lights, festive songs, and gift exchanges, take a moment to pause and breathe. Remember that the greatest gift you can give yourself and those around you is your full, mindful presence.
Heather Arnold, Find Your Calm
This festive season, let’s focus on what truly matters, as Heather reminds us, “The greatest gift you can give yourself and those around you is your full, mindful presence.”
We look forward to seeing you at Café Connect on 11 December for an inspiring and joyful morning of mindfulness, community, and festive fun.
If you’re finding it difficult to cope with your mental health, don’t hesitate to seek support. Visit the Mind website for helpful resources and advice on managing mental health during the Christmas season.
Find out more about the campaign, how you can win in the festive raffle and additional Baking Space events happening near you here.
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