This is a time of a year that can bring mixed emotions up for people. It's a time for holiday "cheer" and celebrations to be shared with family and friends, and also it can be a time of dread and despair for others. Not everyone has close friends and family to share time with, or perhaps it may be a time that brings up loss, grief, unresolved family emotions, and strained relationship dynamics. Wherever you may be, just know that you are not alone and it is completely natural to be feeling however it is that you feel. Here are 3 tips to keep you more grounded this holiday season and hopefully allow for more joy into that precious heart of yours.

1--Spend within your means. That's right. Be super conscious how and where you are spending your money this holiday season. Know that you are already enough with or without giving that gift that you might be tempted into getting because it seems like a "good idea" at the time or you think it will make that person "happy". Remember that your presence alone can bring real joy into someone's life. Your presence is enough so remember that. Be conscious in giving gifts that have meaning & purpose, and that are in alignment with your financial means so you don't go into debt over it. Know your own value. This is the best gift you can give to others.

2--Take regular time for yourself even if it's only for a few minutes each day. This will keep you more centered and grounded within your own heart, mind, and body. Take time to be with yourself in a quiet place or in nature, take some deep breaths into your body, feel your body and appreciate your body for being vibrant and alive. Since it's the end of the year, this is a good time to reflect on the year that has past. Release what has been lived and experienced, release patterns and situations that you are still holding onto, appreciate what has been experienced and learned this year, and welcome into your heart what is to come.

3--Remember that even if you do not have close people in your life to share time with, YOU ARE NOT ALONE. We are never alone. Even if we tried, we could never be alone. Remember that there are beautiful, open hearted people wherever you go. Strike up even simple conversation or say a simple "hello" to the cashier, banker, post office worker, fellow human walking on the street next to you. A simple exchange can drastically change one's feelings of connectivity and hope. Remember that you have no idea how your simple gesture could provide hope to the other person on the other end of the exchange. We never really know what anyone is going through internally so never underestimate what the power of a friendly smile or warm eye contact can bring to someone who just might be feeling all "alone" in their life.

Whatever your life situation is during this holiday season, I wish your heart the deepest and warmest of joy and peace from within and into your life experiences.
Blessings,
Janet