The
Christmas season—which ought to be one of peace and good cheer—is often
everything other than tranquility and happiness. For many people (women
especially), family events, shopping, and fractured relationships bring stress and
steal the joy of Christmas.
Before
the stress sets in, consider these few tips to take into the Christmas season so
that this year it will truly be a season of harmony, peace and pleasure.
1.
Remember
that Christmas is about the celebration of the birth of Christ; see others
through His eyes. If you are in the process of forgiving someone, don’t feel
you’ve failed if this Christmas you aren’t jumping up and down with joy to see
that person. Forgiveness is a process. Take it one step at a time—and be okay
with that.
2.
The
physiological aspect of stress can be countered by breathing. That’s
right—breathe this Christmas season! Breathe deep. Studies show that when we
are stressed we don’t breathe deeply and thus only increase the way our bodies
are succumbing to stress. Become conscious of your breathing during the
Christmas season and make sure to take time to breathe deep and relax.
3.
Drink
plenty of water. Water is a great part of staying physically healthy—which is a
great way to combat stress. Water washes your body of toxins and keeps your
“parts” in good order. Green tea is also a good choice. The point is: make sure
that you are staying hydrated as this will help keep you feeling physically
well.
4.
Invite
the Holy Spirit into your life. Don’t pick up the phone or get in the car
without asking the Holy Spirit to be part of whatever it is you are doing.
Heading over to your in-law’s or company party? Breathe deep and ask the Holy
Spirit to be part of the experience with you. This will allow you to rest in
the spirit and see everyone through Christ’s eyes and speak words of love.
Inviting the Holy Spirit into whatever you happen to be doing will also help
you hear the words of others with kindness and charity. That friend who always
seems to throw verbal zingers your way will be heard differently when you
listen with the Holy Spirit in you.
5.
Finally,
keep Christmas simple. The biggest gift has already been purchased: Your
Salvation through Christ’s birth, death, and resurrection. Use this Christmas
season as a time for personal relationships—more reflective of the one you have
with Christ or are developing with Christ. The Christmas presents you give
shouldn’t be bought in a frenzy or in haste. Let them become more special, more
personal and more fun this year.
Christmas
is about the birth of Christ.
It
is a time of peace and goodwill. It is a time of simplicity.
All
the Black Friday deals in the world cannot beat the deal of a Savior being
born. So as the stores ramp up their promotions and the hype increases
everywhere that you are connected, take a step back, breathe deep, and rejoice
in the birth of Christ in a purposeful, peaceful way.
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