5 Tips to Find Joy this Holiday Season!

This time of year can be tough. We are busy, we are overwhelmed and we are jumping through hoops to manage the travel, the family, the kids and ourselves.

I get it. I'm writing this in Ohio, sitting in my parent's kitchen after a long day in the ER with my father (that's another story, and he is going to be OK- THANK GOD).

First of all, I want to tell you to exhale and that you are an amazing human. You got this. As in, you are going to ROCK this holidaze season.

And as you might find yourself running in circles wondering where the cheer and good vibes are, I want to remind you how far you have come. Think about yourself at this time last year - and give yourself a high five. AMEN. You made it through another year with FIERCE GRACE and LOVE. Seriously, when I think about the growth I have witnessed with my clients this year ---- I AM SPEECHLESS. LIKE WOW! YOU INSPIRE ME.

Now...

When I don't prioritize myself over the holidays, I suffer, my work suffers, the mission suffers.

So here are some easy steps to take care of yourself this week:

1. Laugh a lot. Play a funny song. Smile more. Take out old pictures and look at yourself at 15. Do something that allows the full belly laugh to come out as often as possible. When we laugh our bodies release hormones and chemicals that have positive effects on our system. One of these chemicals is endorphins, the feel-good hormone.

2. Set yourself up for success. Set up a therapy/coaching call. Talk with your go-to person about what triggers might rise up and how to maneuver. If you turn into the 13-year-old girl the minute you walk into your parent's house, this is the perfect time to learn the tools to be realistic and try not the expect the "ideal holiday." Its OK -give yourself a break this holiday season and ask for the tools.

3. Create a spiritual prescription and use it. Bring the crystals, the oils, and the mantras. Create a 5 minute routine in the morning that involves breath work and love. Allow yourself to feel it all without judgment, and then exhale often. "What is this here to teach me" -- is a question I often ask myself in the middle of the tension.

4. Have chocolate at every meal. Enough said.

5. When all else fails, spike your coffee morning and night. Just kidding (or maybe not)...but do make sure you hydrate, you exercise even a little and throw the guilt out the window.

AND FINALLY - as you give thanks, make sure you give thanks to that inner voice of yours that has been with you all year....cheering you on, fighting for you and showing you your power. It deserves your acknowledgment. I am SO PROUD of you!

I am grateful for you. ONE LOVE.