Reading Reflection: Gifts To Give The Soul

Don’t forget to take some time for yourself this holiday season. Reflect on these words from Organic Soul‘s piece, “Gifts To Give The Soul,” and show yourself plenty of love and gratitude during this bright and bustling time of year.

Find Peace

“It seems that marking the days until Christmas has become more of a hurried frenzy than an advent affair. Cold days and snowy conditions can often lead to negative outlooks, while shopping lines and driving traffic makes preparing for festivities more stressful than enjoyable.

In a time of year that should allow for peace, gratitude and reflection, we find ourselves spread as thin as sheets of delicate ice, with the danger of cracking open at any moment.

Find Presence

It takes an abundance of energy to be present for all the occasions of the season, and sometimes the added strain means more anxiety and less ease. Although it can be a challenge to maintain a state of balance, especially over the holidays, the rewards for creating personal harmony amidst outward chaos will be worth the sanity.

Make the most of your time and energy to give yourself as much love and patience as you are giving the world around you. Just because your week is full of obligations surrounding your family, friends and work, it doesn’t mean you can’t tuck away some time to dedicate to your own fulfillment.

Find Fulfillment

Now think about the time that you do have, as well as the time you may be taking for granted. It may not be “free” time, but if it is time that grants you room to seek clarity, it leaves opportunity to find enrichment. Precious moments can be found within your daily routine—in the simplicity that fills empty spaces.

Sometimes all you have to do is take a moment and use your senses. Inhale the rich aroma from fresh ground coffee as cuts through crisp morning air; take a moment to stand and watch the snow as it sparkles on a moonlit walk; listen to a raging fire as it breathes and bellows in a cozy room.

Finding time for yourself is not something that should overwhelm you. You can fit in personal wellness, growth and contentment every day, as long as you choose to make yourself a priority. Giving to others begins by giving to yourself.

You have more to give this season than wrapped goods and festive toasts. Never underestimate the impact you can make by offering your love to others as a strong and whole individual. Allow yourself the time and space to empower yourself and others. Give yourself gifts to nurture your soul.”