Season Of Gratitude
Thanksgiving this year has a deeper meaning. I’ve found myself reflecting on the state of the world and thinking about the countless families experiencing grief. It isn’t missed that my family will be with our loved ones, has nourishing food, warm homes, deep belly laughs, and giggles that make my heart burst with joy isn’t missed. My heart is beyond full of gratitude.
Thanksgiving Reflections
As the holiday season approaches, I feel it’s important to acknowledge and share love with anyone in our sphere of influence who may be suffering. Many loved ones around us are suffering, and it can be a challenging time of year. It was an incredibly tough time for me for decades, and I dreaded the holiday season. I remember sitting at restaurants alone, watching other families laugh and create memories, and wondering how they got so lucky. Today, I can reflect back on those moments and realize the gift they’ve given now to be fully present with my beautiful family. Memories that guide me today in ways that I could have never imagined.
This Thanksgiving, I invite you to share your blessings, acknowledge them, honor them, and realize how truly blessed you are. Spend time reflecting on the blessings and the abundance in your life. Even in the shadows and challenges of life, there are silver linings and lessons.
“This holiday season, empower yourself to shape the narrative of your holidays. Set boundaries, practice gratitude, and revel in the magic of mindful living.”
– Bonnie Hazen
Holiday Guide
And for anyone who needs extra support this time of year, I wanted to share some tools for self-regulation and empowered presence during the holidays.
I hope these tools serve, support, and guide you. And most of all, I wish you a season of peace, love, blessings, and gratitude.
- Practice Mindful Awareness: Begin by cultivating mindfulness. Take moments to pause, breathe, and be present. This can help you stay connected to yourself amid the hustle and bustle of the season. Remember, you can fill the cup of others if your cup isn’t full.
- Set Clear Intentions: Define what you want from the holidays. Whether it’s fostering joy, connection, or personal growth, setting intentions helps guide your actions and decisions. Allow yourself to visualize and define the experience you want this holiday season.
- Embrace Self-Empowerment: Empower yourself by acknowledging that you can choose how you respond to situations. Practice self-compassion and make choices aligned with your well-being.
- Establish Healthy Boundaries: Clearly communicate your boundaries to others. It’s important to educate your environment. Boundaries are great, but you must share your intentions with your loved ones so they can be aware of your wishes and intentions. Know when to say no, and prioritize activities that align with your values and energy levels. This ensures you maintain a healthy balance.
- Mindful Eating and Drinking: Enjoy holiday treats mindfully. Be aware of your body’s signals and savor each bite. Moderation can help you maintain a healthy relationship with food during this indulgent time.
- Practice Gratitude: Cultivate gratitude by reflecting on the positive aspects of your life. Gratitude can shift your focus from stressors to the things that bring you joy, fostering a more positive mindset.
- Mind-Body Practices: Incorporate mind-body practices like yoga, pilates, meditation, or deep breathing exercises into your routine. These practices promote relaxation and emotional regulation. This holiday season, my spiritual practice and Pilates time will serve as my anchor for emotional regulation.
- Create Meaningful Traditions: Establish traditions that hold personal significance. This could be a simple ritual, a family activity, or a charitable gesture. Our family is creative, and we spend time together during the holidays creating thoughtful gifts for our loved ones. Meaningful traditions can contribute to a sense of purpose during the holidays. Find an outlet to create your own meaningful tradition.
- Reflect and Adjust: Regularly check in with yourself. Reflect on what is working well and what might need adjustment. Be open to adapting your approach to better suit your evolving needs.
- Create Your Support System: Cultivate a support system you can lean on during the holiday season. Having a trusted group of friends, family, or a community to reach out to for support can make a significant difference. I have a trusted group of sisters whom I reach out to for support if/when needed during the holidays. Their love and support lift me every time. Our sisterhood and love for each other have been my greatest blessings. A network of people who genuinely care about your well-being can provide valuable perspectives and emotional nourishment, helping you maintain a positive and resilient mindset throughout the holiday season.
Embrace The Spirit Of Gratitude
This Thanksgiving, as we reflect on our blessings, may the echoes of laughter and the warmth of connection resonate, reminding us that every moment holds the potential for joy.
In the tapestry of life, each thread represents a choice — a choice to be present, to empower ourselves, and to express gratitude. As we navigate the holiday season, may these choices shape a narrative of fulfillment, purpose, and genuine connection.
Wishing you a Thanksgiving filled not only with the pleasures of the table but also with the soul-nourishing joys of mindful living. May the essence of gratitude linger in your heart, guiding you through the days ahead. From my heart to yours, a season of peace, love, and continued blessings.
With cosmic love,
Bonnie
Art by: Claudio Schwarz