Christmas is often seen as a time of joy and celebration,
But that can be tough,
Especially if your family situation,
Traditions,
Or personal life have changed.
You might be dealing with the heartache of losing someone you cared about,
Realizing your kids are growing up and carving out their own lives,
Or navigating divorce and changing family dynamics.
Maybe friendships are strained by distance.
When the holiday spirit eludes you and your heart feels heavy,
Whether it's sorrow from loss or the frustration of change,
Give yourself kindness,
Compassion,
And understanding.
Close your eyes and place your hand over your heart.
Acknowledge your feelings.
Any sadness,
Loneliness,
Anger,
Worry,
Grief.
Say to these feelings,
I see you,
I hear you,
You matter to me.
Let these words really sink in.
Offer yourself three precious gifts this Christmas.
Kindness,
Compassion,
And understanding.
Receive these gifts in today's visualization.
Picture a cabin nestled in snow-capped mountains,
In a quiet winter desert,
Or overlooking a northern beach,
Or any place that you can imagine your favorite spot.
Wrap yourself in a warm blanket,
And imagine a teapot full of your favorite brew and a mug just beside it.
Now zoom out to see a network of cabins scattered around you,
Each one holding people just like you,
With their emotions of sadness,
Loss,
Loneliness,
And change this holiday season.
Reflect on the bond that connects you to others,
We will fill this cabin with memories of past holidays,
Imagining the inside decorated with colors,
Photos that speak to your life,
Objects that tell a story of who you are and who you were.
Take time to do that now.
Notice what feelings come up for you.
Remember that you can return to this cabin whenever you need a little shelter this holiday season.
This holiday season,
Hold self-kindness and connection inside.
Gently open your eyes.
Wishing you a kind and gentle holiday season.
