The Perfect Holiday

The Perfect Holiday by [Madisyn Taylor]( Upset feelings about the holiday season can be caused by an unrealistic sense of what the holidays should mean for us. As the holidays arrive it is easy to become distracted by our desire for perfection. It might be the need to craft a festive environment, always be in an upbeat mood, or simply the desire to find just the right gifts for everyone in our lives. Even though these things can be positive, if we start putting too much pressure on ourselves during this season, we are much more apt to forget what truly is important--celebrating our lives with the people we care about. For many of us this time of year can stir up a host of mixed emotions. For example, we might feel a tinge of nostalgia for past holiday celebrations, when times were simpler, or a sense of being let down due to the unmet expectations we have for ourselves and others. No matter what our feelings are, they are likely to be caused by an unrealistic sense of what the holidays should mean for us. Rather than thinking of this season as a time for finding the perfect gift or hosting the best party, we can get so much more out of the holidays if we create a personal inventory of the things that matter most to us. With each item we add to our list, we can then set the intention to use this season as a time to consciously rejoice in and express our appreciation for the blessings we have. The more we are able to let go of our traditional expectations for the holidays, the more open we will become to the bounteous spirit that lies within us. Our true enjoyment of this season will only come from looking within and reflecting on the deeper spiritual significance the holidays have for us. Infusing our holiday activities with a sense of gratitude will bring a greater level of enjoyment to our life and also help us extend loving and kind energy to all we encounter. It is this spirit that will allow us to truly celebrate by sharing our greatest gifts--infinite love, peace, understanding, and joy--with those around us. [PRINT]( [SAVE]( [DISCUSS]( --------------------------------------------------------------- DailyOM Course Spotlight [Break the Grip of Emotional Abuse]( by Jumana Sophia If you are involved in any relationship, whether romantic, parental, familial, or career, that is defined or overshadowed by repetitive patterns of negativity, it is important that you take the time to really understand and reckon with the true cost to your body and soul that adds up when you sustain these types of relationship dynamics. While occasional conflict or challenge is unavoidable (and stimulating for growth), relationships are meant to be reservoirs of support for the courageous journey you must take into your own destiny, your own growth in this lifetime. The closest relationships in your life should be secure places where you can rest your heart and gather your strength. Many do not want to admit -- or may not even realize -- that they are involved in an emotionally abusive relationship. Emotional abuse can take many forms - neglect, verbal criticism, dishonesty, betrayal, manipulation, disrespect, or cruelty. If you are enduring any of these within your relationship, it is time to look within and find the wisdom to shift the dysfunctional relationships you're in, or the courage to step away from them altogether. [Learn More]( --------------------------------------------------------------- Top 10 DailyOM Courses 1. [21 Days to Phenomenal Abdominals]( 2. [21 Day Total Goddess Workout]( 3. [Fit and Fierce Over 40]( 4. [Overcoming Self-Sabotage]( 5. [Clearing Physical and Emotional Clutter]( 6. [From Codependent to Independent]( 7. [Overcoming Body Stiffness]( 8. [21 Day Yoga Shred For Men]( 9. [Chair Yoga for Healing, Strength and Mobility]( 10. [14 Day Spinal Reset]( > [More Courses]( --------------------------------------------------------------- [Home]( | [Inspiration]( | [Courses]( | [Horoscopes]( | [Gift Shop]() [Email Settings]( | [Unsubscribe]( | [Privacy Policy]( | [Help/FAQ]( © 2016 DailyOM - All Rights Reserved No portion of this site can be reprinted without express permission. Subscribed as {NAME}[at]gmail.com (1276706) [1]