I think it’s fair to say that the fall season has been incredibly challenging for just about everybody. I have to believe that all this global upheaval is for a higher purpose that is good and necessary for our evolution, and yet somehow that doesn’t make it feel any less stressful. And now here we are in the midst of holiday madness — the planning, the shopping, the expectations. Enough already!

As best I can this year, I am going back to basics. I am reclaiming the holidays as holy-days, sacred time to spend on self care, honouring the return of the light (which happens after Winter Solstice on December 21st), going within as nature intends at this time of year, and spending meaningful time with people and on projects that I love. Regardless of our spiritual and religious backgrounds or preferences, we can focus on the holiness of the season by bringing our whole selves to it (remembering that the words healing, wholeness and holy all come from the same latin root).

If that sounds good to you too, I offer the following thoughts on how to re-align yourself, mind, body and soul, to the true meaning and rhythm of the season:

Slow down and do less.

Easier said than done, I know. Don’t try to cram in too many to-dos, especially if it’s in the pursuit of the “perfect” holiday. Is it really essential? Do you enjoy doing it? If not, can you let it drop from your list? You will probably be the only one who notices. Give yourself permission to let it go. This will give you more time to spend on and with yourself and your loved ones.

Create coziness, rather than perfection.

I’ve been reading a lot about the Danish concept of Hygge (pronounced HOO-gah), which loosely translates to coziness and comfort. It’s about heart(h) and home, creating a feeling of warmth around you and within you, rather than striving for some kind of imagined perfection that you’ve seen on a television commercial or in a magazine article.

For me that looks like spending the days between Christmas and New Year curled up with a new book under a blanket, lighting a morning candle while I write my Morning Pages, and maybe doing some collage journaling. With family, I’ll be watching more movies and trying out some new gluten-free baking recipes.

Give meaningful gifts.

It’s lovely to give and receive meaningful gifts. As we age, I think it’s much less about material items than it is about creating lasting memories and experiences we’ll cherish. This year I’m taking the cue from one of my best friends, who has spoken to all of her girlfriends about forgoing the exchange of “stuff” this holiday, and instead making plans to spend time together on a walk, at the movies, or going out for a beautiful meal.

If you are giving traditional gifts, make them more meaningful by aligning the gifts with your values. Instead of buying from stores that sell sweat-shop and poor quality merchandise, support local and ethical businesses, non-profit causes, and holistic practitioners. Buy from creative entrepreneurs on Etsy or at nearby holiday craft fairs, or post on Facebook to get suggestions.

Nourish your body.

As much as you can, eat the same healthy, nourishing foods at the holidays that you would the rest of the year. Honour your body as a vessel for the best version of yourself, and you’ll not only head into the new year feeling refreshed and energized, but you’ll also be more likely to avoid the colds and flu that can come after a holiday season of over-indulgence in sugar and other immune-system stressors.

As well, aim to keep up with your regular movement/exercise routines. Dancing has made a huge difference in my life, keeping me grounded and feeling a sense of my own solidity, despite what’s going on in the world around me.

Prioritize reflection and visioning time.

No matter the news headlines, there is always something in our own life that we can be grateful for. As 2016 draws to a close, what can you celebrate? What are you ready to let go of? And what will you say YES and NO to as you step into 2017? Take time over the holidays to review the year that was, and create a vision for the next greatest version of you.

How will YOU create sacred time for yourself over the holidays? I’d love to hear; please leave me a comment below.

I wish you light, love and self nourishment over the coming season.  Many blessings and happy holy-days!!