By: Jess Smith, Founder of Elevated Vibrations Collective LLC
September 29, 2024, Updated November 5, 2024

The image paints a vivid picture of autumn joy. The woman, adorned with a golden tiara, becomes a queen of the fall season, her smile as bright as the bright leaves around her. Her mustard sweater, a perfect match for the warm hues of the trees, complements the scene, while the dried Pampas grass she holds aloft adds a touch of whimsy to this charming portrait of happiness and seasonal beauty.
As we enter Fall, we see change all around us, from the temperature, the color of the leaves, the foods in the stores to our energy levels, our mood and our expectations. We see messages all around us that fall is the time to slow down and get cozy. How can you make this a reality? For some, fall means go time, with work, family demands and the impending holiday hustle bustle.
This holiday season let's prioritize what truly matters – staying present. It's about cherishing the company of our family and friends and letting go of expectations in order to appreciate "what is."
Practicing mindfulness is a powerful tool to notice and accept “what is.”
As the holiday season approaches, the excitement and joy often come hand-in-hand with a whirlwind of activities, obligations, and sometimes, stress. When overwhelm creeps in, this is the time to analyze what you can let go of. Many times, this can be our expectations for how we feel about something, someone or ourselves "should" be. Holidays come with lots of expectations attached. Find how you can let them go and just "be." The best and most memorable moments usually are the ones that happen organically.
Using mindfulness as a tool to navigate this busy time can help you stay grounded, present, and truly enjoy the festivities. Mindfulness, the practice of being fully present in the moment, allows you to appreciate the little things, reduce stress, and connect more deeply with loved ones.
Mindfulness techniques help condition the brain to focus on the present.
By consistently practicing mindfulness, you train your mind to stay in the moment, coaching it to focus on the here and now, and over time, you’ll find yourself naturally more engaged throughout your day. Make it a daily habit and watch as you effortlessly tune into the present moment, untouched by past worries or future anxieties. Begin today, and by the time the holidays arrive, you will find it easier to be present and discover tranquility in each moment of the season.
How can you incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine? While many associate mindfulness with meditation, it's just one of many techniques available! Experiment with different methods to discover what resonates with you. Here are 3 methods to fall into mindfulness this season:
1.Breathing Techniques
One popular approach is focusing on your breath, which can swiftly ground you in the present moment. There are various breathing techniques to explore, and one of my personal favorites is this Six-Minute Vegas Nerve Breathing Meditation available on Insight Timer: https://insig.ht/SaFY10jViNb
2. Mindful Eating
Another way to incorporate mindfulness is through mindful eating. With so many delicious treats around, it’s tempting to overindulge. Instead, savor each bite, pay attention to the flavors and textures, and listen to your body’s signals of hunger and fullness. This can enhance your enjoyment of holiday foods and prevent overeating.
3. Mindful Gift-Giving
Rather than rushing to buy the latest gadgets, take time to consider what would truly bring joy to each recipient. A thoughtful, personalized gift, or even a heartfelt note, can be more meaningful and appreciated.
Finally, don’t forget to be mindful of your own needs. The holidays can be demanding, so it’s crucial to carve out time for self-care. In order to do this, first take time for you! Give yourself permission to rest, and truly enjoy that time of doing what refuels you energetically, emotionally and physically. Set boundaries around your self-care and allow yourself to put yourself first. Whether it’s a warm bath, a walk in nature, or simply reading a book, these moments of relaxation are essential for maintaining your well-being.
By incorporating mindfulness into your holiday preparations, you can create a more joyful, meaningful, and stress-free season. Embrace the present moment, cherish your connections, and let the spirit of the holidays fill your heart with peace and gratitude.
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Peace & Light,
Jess

The image portrays a vertical portrait in a lavish gold frame embossed with intricate leaf carvings in each of the four corners of a woman with medium length brown curly hair in a field of golden and brown hues. She is wearing a baggy beige sweater with grey vertical stripes with a wide brown belt and black skinny jeans. She is looking over her shoulder, lips adorned with red lipstick, she is smiling brightly and holding a bouquet of dried Pampas Grass.
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