Making Space for Yourself
Wrap the presents, baste the turkey, order holiday cards, decorate...the holidays can get overwhelming! In this guide, we will discuss how to stop the rush, slow down, and focus on your spiritual health.
What is a "Restorative Mindset?"
Before we discuss “restorative mindset” in detail, let’s define it. In my mind, a restorative mindset is a mindset that involves tapping into our spiritual health through a level of consciousness that honors our feelings. This mindset is achieved by shutting down negative self-talk, expanding beliefs, denouncing comparative thinking, and opening yourself to change, whether positive or negative.
Before we start to reframe our mindset, we need to identify and understand our triggers and our fears and utilize them as signposts on our journey toward healing. Our pain points can say a lot about the issues that are affecting us.
Reframing Our Mindset
In order to cultivate a Restorative Mindset, we need to reframe how we look at the holiday season. It is important to set an intention: “I will cultivate myself even in times of stress.” How can you do this?
Firstly, don’t fall prey to these common beliefs:
Being busy during the holidays is normal and okay: While you may find your agenda packed, you should always take the time to stop and breathe. Even if it is just for a few moments, take a few deep breaths.
It’s okay to compare yourselves to others because it motivates you to do more/better: “Comparison is the thief of joy,” as they say. Instead of saying “I could do more” or “I could do better,” say “I am doing what I can at this time.” Be gentle with yourself.
Gaining weight and eating badly during the holidays is just what happens: It doesn’t have to be! You can eat the treats you like in moderation, but remember to honor your body with exercise and mindful nutrition.
Second, focus on the positive, literally! Did you know that we have about 70,000 thoughts per day? Analyze your thoughts. How many of them are positive? Positive thoughts boost our spirit and generate a mindset of restoration and grace. When it comes to your mindset, let the light in!
Confronting Negativity
What are the things that are holding you back from a restored, clear, and light mindset?
Let’s do an exercise:
Think of two negative thoughts that will hold you back from feeling present during the holiday season. Write them down. Be aware that you may feel some pain while confronting these topics. For me, I think about how difficult it can be to interact with my divorced parents during the holidays.
Write down an “Empowering Decision,” or a positive thought that helps you to confront those negative thoughts. For me, it is knowing that my family deserves my grace and love.
What thoughts spring up from this exercise? Are they negative? Stop and take some breaths. When you begin to feel negative energy when interacting with someone or something that you may find triggering, remember to breathe. If you feel you need some support, share your story on my group page. Connect with other members and know you are supported and not alone.
Being present and comfortable, even when you are in a difficult moment, is the manifestation and result of a positive mindset. If you’d like to learn more about how you might be placing your spiritual and physical health on the back burner, read my blog “Is Your Plate Too Full.” I wish you happiness and health.
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Brandy Lane Hickman, NBHWC
2B Well Integrative Health Collaborative, Owner Inspired Nutrition, National Board Certified Health Coach, Kitchen Therapy
Board President, Missouri Nutrition Alliance Non-Profit