Bringing all of yourself through the holidays.
by Aaron Gallegos MSN, AGACNP-BC, FMCAC
The holidays are right around the corner and with it the time to give, appreciate, and celebrate. Our focus though can easily be overshadowed by shopping, traveling and even visiting old family dynamics, which many times may bring up uncomfortable feelings and emotions. With this awareness in mind, I want to share with you a mantra if you will that may help you stay focused, grateful and consistently festive during this holiday season.
The holidays are the time where we notoriously let festivities take priority and we can easily lose ourselves in doing, being and going. A good reminder to keep our festive perspective is to ask why we are doing, celebrating or giving in the first place. Chances are that our emotions, feelings and desires are not as engaged and we may find ourselves going through the motions. As a result, it is likely that we will find ourselves being resentful at the end. Rather than going through the motions, lets focus on an emotion that may invoke love, compassion or appreciation within you, which is then likely that you will experience a shift in your motivation, focus and even your energy level.
Involving our emotions is a useful way to predict our motivation, and our impact on other people around us. You will likely be in a heart congruence state, and regardless of where other people may be at around you. Chances are you will be content, and effectively stay on track during this holiday season. There is good data supporting effective communication, reception and motivation when utilizing our emotions. The Heart Math Institute has been studying the effect of emotions on our inner communication and our interpersonal communication, which by far is more effective when eliciting feelings of gratitude, compassion and love. The use of heart rate variability HRV has been a great indicator of well-being and happiness in times of stress, which is linked to longevity, well-being, and a more fulfilling life regardless of the situation.
Next time you find yourself frustrated, overwhelmed or unable to bear through the holidays practice heart coherence technique. You will find a deeper space with in yourself that is conducive to curiosity, appreciation and an overall shift in perception. For more information on the Heart-Math Institute techniques ask your health care provider or visit https://www.heartmath.org
Happy Holidays to you and your family!