grounding down during the holidays

The holidays are a wonderful time to slow down, find presence and be still. It is a time of gratitude and focus on who and what mean the most to us. They can, however also bring up a whole host of emotions, stress and even memories, some difficult. In those moments you feel off-balance, anxious and what I like to call, “floating,” connecting back to the earth is a prime way to strengthen your root chakra and reestablish the grounding your body is desperately seeking. It doesn’t have to be complicated or take a lot of time. Just a few mindful moments to pause and reset can make a world of difference and help you enjoy this time of year. This is also a self- care practice you can take with you the whole year through.

 Earthing- Feel your feet connected to the earth. Take a walk in the grass, sand, etc. and reconnect with Mother Earth.

Sensory Awareness- Tune into your 5 senses and notice your surroundings. Allow your mind to take it all in while tuning the rest of the world out. Notice things you hear, see, smell, etc. The power of touch can particularly ground and root through hugging, tapping, crystal use, etc.

 Epsom Salt Baths- (My personal fave. Big fan.) They are an instant grounding ritual which can dispel negative or over sensitized energy. 20 minutes in the tub can work wonders and calm the body and nervous system. If a tub is unavailable, try soaking your feet.

Nourishment- Eat and savor something sustaining, hearty and comforting. Drink something non caffeinated and hot.

Give yourself a time out- Take 3-5 minutes, find a quiet room where you can isolate and be still. Sit on the floor, lay down or sit in a chair with feet firmly connected to the floor. Slow breaths to follow. Move your body- take a walk, stretch, do yoga, run…. Anything that helps move stagnant, fearful energy out of the way.

 Create- Write, draw, paint, bake, whatever speaks to you and helps bring you a sense of safety, joy, stability and expression.

Visualization & Mantra - Think of something or somewhere that brings you joy and peace. Or, simply picture the color red for Muladhara, the root chakra. Close your eyes and internally repeat a simple mantra that resonates with you or, simply repeat, “I am….” (Examples: “I am safe.” “I am secure.” “I am connected to the earth.” “I am centered and peaceful,” etc.)

Dance Party- Listen to music that soothes your soul. Shake, move, jump and let the body intuitively move as it wants to. I love the classic Christmas jams this time of year, myself.

Deep Breathing- Breath-work doesn’t need to be difficult. Counting to an even rhythm can help ground and bring the body back to equilibrium. Try inhaling slowly while counting to 4 and exhaling to 4. Start with repeating 10 times and work your way up to a couple of minutes.

Reminders- It’s OK to say, “No.” It’s OK to not get everything done. It’s OK to rest. It’s OK to ask for help. It’s OK to not be OK. It’s OK to take a break.

happy & healthy holidays.

love & much light,

jess

xxx