To be rooted is perhaps the most important and least recognized need of the human soul.           –  Simone Weil

It’s the holidays! I can already feel the bustle around town and in the stores. With a  myriad of social and family gatherings, traditions and parties – how can I stay grounded? For me, the holidays are a marker of time passed and an opportunity to assess the year. Did I achieve all I wanted? How do I measure up against where I think I should be?

I have discovered that these questions are based on the false premise that my external circumstances define me. What a relief to let that go! Now, I am imperfectly working toward cultivating a deep sense of security in who I am – the person I have become. Where I am in life – the external circumstances must follow this feeling of well being and security. I encourage you to dig deep and root down into yourself this season. Enjoy the clarity of focus and peace that comes from that practice.

Many emotions get stirred up from being around loved ones that you haven’t seen for a while. Here are three simple tips for showing up as your best self.

1) MAINTAIN YOUR ROUTINE – we all have daily practices whether we are aware of them or not. Part of my daily practice includes meditation and doing a ballet barre. No matter where I go or who I stay with I have found that keeping up my routine grounds me and keeps me connected to my authentic self.

2) TAKE BREAKS –  being around people constantly can be overwhelming for even the most social butterfly. Take a walk, go to the gym, take a nap, etc. These are all reasonable and effective ways that you can recharge. Remember that by taking care of yourself you are ensuring that you will be your best self with your friends and family.

3) BE PRESENT WHILE CONSUMING – how am I feeling? Doing a feelings check may sound silly, but often times we indulge in food/alcohol as a way of soothing ourselves emotionally, only it happens unconsciously. You might find that by noticing how you feel and sitting with the feeling you no longer desire another piece of pie or a cocktail. When you notice uncomfortable feelings, that is a good time to practice #2 – just step outside for a moment and notice the fresh air and the trees. It is amazing how quickly we can ground ourselves when we are truly present.

photo credit: Alexa Miller